tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2764251421434454122016-11-12T00:03:53.814-05:00the naptown organizerone crunchy mama's trek through parenting, any
and everything granola, and a life more organizedthe naptown organizerhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/07065433185128079044noreply@blogger.comBlogger490125tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-276425142143445412.post-1153822512652552372014-08-06T00:30:00.000-04:002014-08-06T00:30:43.101-04:00The end of Naptown, but our road will lead us home.<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"></div>Six very short years ago, two young kids moved to the Indianapolis area at the ripe young age of 24. &nbsp;They'd both recently finished their degrees and had begun to work at <i>real, </i>big-time jobs. &nbsp;They were fresh and new and full of purpose. <br /><br />Those two kids?<br /><br />They were DH &amp; I.<br /><br />When we moved to the Indianapolis area, we were light-years away from where we are now. &nbsp;We had endless time, much more disposable income {<i>oh, to be dual-income-no-kids... lol</i>}, and all the hopes and dreams in the world. &nbsp;Life was really just starting for us.<br /><br />In the past six years, life has changed for us a little bit. &nbsp;We've been homeowners for six years. &nbsp;Between the two of us, we've had eight jobs {three of which we currently still work for}, two children, four vehicles. &nbsp;We've trekked the transition from happy-go-lucky kids to responsible adults. &nbsp;We've braved the years of marriage it's taken to truly know each other and love each other for not only our strengths but also our faults. &nbsp;We've dealt with issues from broken air conditioners in sweltering heat to work situations that have been unhealthy enough that we've walked away without back-up's to the passing of a beloved pet. <br /><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-yHqgIq2B2_w/U-Gs6ahg7rI/AAAAAAAAEt4/HCeXu51r6ZI/s1600/indy1.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-yHqgIq2B2_w/U-Gs6ahg7rI/AAAAAAAAEt4/HCeXu51r6ZI/s1600/indy1.jpg" height="640" width="480" /></a></div><br />But we've also enjoyed some of the biggest high's in our lives. &nbsp;We've welcomed two <b>beautiful</b>&nbsp;babies into our lives. &nbsp;We've rocked and played and tickled and snuggled and laughed and loved. <br /><br /><i>Oh, we've loved.</i><br /><i><br /></i>We've loved each other and these sweet children more than we ever thought was possible. <br /><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-GnTsnsc4PHs/U-Guq05Z89I/AAAAAAAAEuM/kNF8I0eQQGQ/s1600/indy3.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-GnTsnsc4PHs/U-Guq05Z89I/AAAAAAAAEuM/kNF8I0eQQGQ/s1600/indy3.jpg" height="426" width="640" /></a></div><br /><br />We've had so many successes and triumphs and learning and growth.<br /><br />Underneath all of that is <i>the place that we've lived</i>. &nbsp;Looking back at all those memories, both good and bad - I see our home. &nbsp;I see the hospital where our babies were born. &nbsp;I see the bed where we all snuggle in the mornings. &nbsp;I see the restaurants for those dinners out before babies. &nbsp;I see those trips to the museums where happy children reached for our hands and dragged us off to see the next attraction. &nbsp;I see the back door where the kids come running over to their daddy when he comes home from work. &nbsp;I see those nights sitting in our backyard with a fire burning staring at the stars over the field behind our home. <br /><br />This is the place I learned to be my own person. &nbsp;This is the place I learned to be a mother. &nbsp;The place where my world shifted and my life changed and I became better. &nbsp;Where I learned it's okay to be unapologetic for exactly who I am, but at the same time that being kind and understanding toward others trumps all. &nbsp;Where I learned the best joys of my life come from the giving of myself to others that I love. &nbsp;<b>I became me here</b>. <br /><br />In the past six years, we've met so many wonderful people and made <b>so</b>&nbsp;many memories. &nbsp;From friends to colleagues to our visiting family - we've been so lucky in the community we've enjoyed and created. &nbsp;There have been <i>many</i>&nbsp;here who have touched our hearts and lives along the way. <br /><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-UFIVcYfuYWU/U-Gs8ZIQ8mI/AAAAAAAAEuA/jbwLRA9Um2I/s1600/indy2.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-UFIVcYfuYWU/U-Gs8ZIQ8mI/AAAAAAAAEuA/jbwLRA9Um2I/s1600/indy2.jpg" height="426" width="640" /></a></div><br /><br />And I will be very tightly holding all of this to my heart as we embark on the next page in the story of our lives - which, as of October of 2014, will include our leaving this city and our home to create a new journey.<br /><br /><i><b>Because we're moving to Missouri.</b></i><br /><i><br /></i>My wonderful, awesome husband and I have decided to move our family out of Indiana and into the state of Missouri {the Kansas City area, to be exact} after he was offered a really great job opportunity within his company. &nbsp;We are excited and nervous and hopeful and happy and scared all in one regarding the process of selling our home, packing our home, and moving our lives several states away. &nbsp;I'm sure I'll have many thoughts in the upcoming days, but the only thought I'm left with tonight is this -<br /><br /><i>Thank you, Indianapolis. &nbsp;Thank you for everything.</i><br /><br /><div class="nopin"><img alt="signature photo signature.png" border="0" src="http://i277.photobucket.com/albums/kk53/jhein815/Blog%20Design/signature.png" /><br /><br /><center><a href="https://twitter.com/share" target="_blank"><img alt="tweet this!" border="0" src="http://i277.photobucket.com/albums/kk53/jhein815/Blog%20Design/tweet-2.png" /></a><a href="http://www.facebook.com/TheNaptownOrganizer" target="_blank"><img alt="follow on fb" border="0" src="http://i277.photobucket.com/albums/kk53/jhein815/Blog%20Design/follow-on-facebook.png" /></a><a href="javascript:void((function()%7Bvar%20e=document.createElement('script');e.setAttribute('type','text/javascript');e.setAttribute('charset','UTF-8');e.setAttribute('src','http://assets.pinterest.com/js/pinmarklet.js?r='+Math.random()*99999999);document.body.appendChild(e)%7D)());"><img src="http://i277.photobucket.com/albums/kk53/jhein815/Blog%20Design/pin-2.png" /></a></center><center><div class="pf_ads" id="pf_25600"><script src="http://load.passionfruitads.com/a/804c0b3baeb0bec163a097303aa7151edb63abcd.js" type="text/javascript"></script></div></center></div>the naptown organizerhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/07065433185128079044noreply@blogger.com8tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-276425142143445412.post-19416879227627510852014-08-04T22:22:00.002-04:002014-08-04T22:22:41.296-04:00Green Scene Mom - New Mommy Giveaway!<img alt="New Mommy Giveaway" border="0" src="http://greenscenemom.com/images/giveaways/0814NewMom/new-mommy-giveaway.jpg" /><br /><a href="http://greenscenemom.com/" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">Green Scene Mom</a> has partnered with Guava Family and many other brands to bring you this fabulous giveaway featuring lots of great products for new moms and their babies! Each of these products was designed to meet a unique need and make life simple for mom and baby.<br /><table border="0" cellpadding="10" cellspacing="0"><tbody><tr><td><br /><img alt="Green Scene Mom - Guava Family Giveaway" border="0" src="http://greenscenemom.com/images/giveaways/0814NewMom/guava-family.jpg" height="200" width="200" /></td><td><br /><strong>Guava Family</strong>Lotus Everywhere Crib - $249.95<br /><br />The Lotus travel crib is so easy to use and easy to take with you, you will want to use it everywhere... places you never would even consider taking more traditional portable cribs simply because they are too bulky &amp; heavy. Use the Lotus at home, at a friends house for dinner, or even in the airport terminal. The Lotus is more than a travel crib. It's an Everywhere Crib. <a href="http://guavafamily.com/" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">guavafamily.com</a></td></tr><tr><td><br /><img alt="Green Scene Mom - Coromega Giveaway" border="0" src="http://greenscenemom.com/images/giveaways/0814NewMom/coromega.jpg" height="200" width="200" /></td><td><br /><strong>Coromega</strong>Be Bright Superfood Oil Blend, 2 90ct Original Orange, and 2 30Ct Orange "Tiger" - $140<br /><br />Coromega selects only the finest ultra-refined fish oil for use in its products. Our fish oil originates deep within the wild fishing stocks in the clear waters of South America. Once extracted, the crude fish oil is delivered the experienced hands of our Norwegian refinery where it is given its superior sensory characteristics to be clear, taste-free and odor-free. Since 1999, Coromega has produced the most effective and advanced delivery form of Omega-3, making it into incredibly tasty, natural citrus flavors with no fishy taste, aftertaste or fishy burps! <a href="http://coromega.com/" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">coromega.com</a></td></tr><tr><td><br /><img alt="Green Scene Mom - The Bumble Collection Giveaway" border="0" src="http://greenscenemom.com/images/giveaways/0814NewMom/bumble-collection.jpg" height="200" width="200" /></td><td><br /><strong>The Bumble Collection</strong>Brittany Backpack in Lace Floral - $99.99<br /><br />The Bumble Collection is a family lifestyle brand specializing in children's products including diaper bags and family accessories such as lunch bags, picnic baskets, and food/beverage coolers for our fashionable families. Since 1999, our diaper bags have graced the pages of magazines and have been carried on the shoulders of many A-list celebrities. Our products have been placed on the shelves of top retailers spanning the globe. All products from The Bumble Collection are made of the finest materials using an all-natural process without the use of synthetic preservatives as we respect and embrace the value of sustainability and it's effects on the environment. <a href="http://thebumblecollection.com/" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">thebumblecollection.com</a></td></tr><tr><td><br /><img alt="Green Scene Mom - Yummi Pouch Giveaway" border="0" src="http://greenscenemom.com/images/giveaways/0814NewMom/yummi-pouch.jpg" height="200" width="200" /></td><td><br /><strong>Yummi Pouch</strong>Yummi Pouch Brights reusable food pouches + cloth snack &amp; sandwich bag set - $24.99<br /><br />Yummi Pouch eco-friendly snack time solutions encourage healthy snacks for active kids. Our reusable food pouches are freezer safe, dishwasher safe, BPA-free, Phthalate-free, and can be filled with healthy blended snacks and easily taken on-the-go, no spoon required! Yummi Pouch cloth snack bags are lined with a water resistant interior and decorated with colorful prints. Perfect for crackers, chips, and sandwiches. <a href="http://yummipouch.com/" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">yummipouch.com</a></td></tr><tr><td><br /><img alt="Green Scene Mom - Belli Skincare Giveaway" border="0" src="http://greenscenemom.com/images/giveaways/0814NewMom/belli-prep-glow-trio.jpg" height="200" width="200" /></td><td><br /><strong>Belli Skincare</strong>Prep &amp; Glow Trio from Belli Skincare - $69.99<br /><br />Belli Fresh Start Pre-Treatment Scrub is an invigorating scrub with peppermint that sweeps away old skin cells to reveal healthy skin. Belli Anti-Blemish Facial Wash is a pure facial wash featuring lactic acid that leaves skin clear and refined, without over-drying. Belli Healthy Glow Facial Hydrator is a lightweight moisturizer rich in Vitamin C and botanical humectants that help refine and soften skin texture. <a href="http://belliskincare.com/" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">belliskincare.com</a></td></tr><tr><td><br /><img alt="Green Scene Mom - AVENT Electric Bottle and Baby Food Warmer Giveaway" border="0" src="http://greenscenemom.com/images/giveaways/0814NewMom/philips-avent.jpg" height="200" width="200" /></td><td><br /><strong>Philips AVENT</strong>Electric Bottle and Baby Food Warmer Giveaway - $45.99<br /><br />The fast, safe way to warm expressed milk and baby food, the Philips AVENT Electric Bottle and Baby Food Warmer warms 125ml/4oz milk at room temperature in around 4 minutes. <a href="http://www.usa.philips.com/c-p/SCF255_33/avent-electric-bottle-and-baby-food-warmer" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">philips.com</a></td></tr><tr><td><br /><img alt="Green Scene Mom - Buttons Diapers Giveaway" border="0" src="http://greenscenemom.com/images/giveaways/0814NewMom/buttons-cloth-diapers.jpg" height="200" width="200" /></td><td><br /><strong>Buttons Diapers</strong>2 diaper covers + 2 daytime diaper inserts + 1 small wet bag - $36<br /><br />Buttons Diapers feature a quality and affordable two-in-one diapering system that consists of wipeable PUL covers and super-soft absorbent inserts that snap into the covers to stay in place! Buttons Diapers fit babies from 9-35 lbs, have two layers of stretchy waterproof PUL throughout, and double gussets at the legs to keep messes in. <a href="http://buttonsdiapers.com/" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">buttonsdiapers.com</a></td></tr><tr><td><br /><img alt="Green Scene Mom - Mixie Giveaway" border="0" src="http://greenscenemom.com/images/giveaways/0814NewMom/mixie.jpg" height="200" width="200" /></td><td><br /><strong>Mixie</strong>8 oz. bottle, 4 oz. bottle, 1 package each of Stage 1, 2, and 3 silicone nipple replacements - $51.95<br /><br />Mixie is the first baby formula bottle that can be fixed now and mixed later. Formula goes in the little compartment. Water goes in the bottle. At the first cry, just push the button, shake, and blend. Simple. Yet really quite genius. On a flight, or in the middle of the night, Mixie has you covered. Because when baby wants a bottle, baby wants a bottle now. <a href="http://mixiebaby.com/" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">mixiebaby.com</a></td></tr><tr><td><br /><img alt="Green Scene Mom - Lollaland Giveaway" border="0" src="http://greenscenemom.com/images/giveaways/0814NewMom/lollacup.jpg" height="200" width="200" /></td><td><br /><strong>Lollaland</strong>1 Lollacup + 1 Straw Replacement Pack + 1 Mealtime Set - $41<br /><br />Lollacup is a stylish and functional, drinking cup whose innovative design helps infants and toddlers successfully use a straw. Lollacup's flexible straw has a weighted end that allows children to drink effortlessly, even when the cup is tilted. The straw is valve-free, which makes it easy to use and clean. Lollacup is BPA and phthalate-free and is proudly made in the USA. The Lollaland Mealtime Set is the perfect complement to the well-loved Lollacup. Lollaland's Mealtime Set consists of a plate, bowl and dipping cup designed for smaller hands and toddler-sized portions. <a href="http://lollaland.com/" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">lollaland.com</a></td></tr><tr><td><br /><img alt="Green Scene Mom - Ubbi Giveaway" border="0" src="http://greenscenemom.com/images/giveaways/0814NewMom/ubbi.jpg" height="200" width="200" /></td><td><br /><strong>Ubbi</strong>Twin pack cloth liner - $29.95<br /><br />Using washable diapers? We have exactly what you need! The Ubbi cloth pail liner is a necessity for cloth diapering parents. Bring out the green in your diaper pail with these biodegradable liners. Twin pack includes 2 bags that are washable, waterproof, odor-resistant and reusable. Using the Ubbi cloth pail liners add to the eco-friendly experience. <a href="http://ubbiworld.com/" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">ubbiworld.com</a></td></tr><tr><td><br /><img alt="Green Scene Mom - Water Wipes Giveaway" border="0" src="http://greenscenemom.com/images/giveaways/0814NewMom/water-wipes.jpg" height="200" style="float: left; margin-right: 10px;" width="200" /></td><td><br /><strong>WaterWipes</strong>12 packs of 60 wipes - $42.99<br /><br />WaterWipes are the world's purest baby wipes. Made from 99.9% water &amp; 0.1% grapefruit seed extract. And that's it! Nothing else! Only 2 ingredients. Completely free from chemicals, WaterWipes are the baby wipes parents and healthcare professionals have been waiting for. All natural and pure, WaterWipes are safe to use on baby's delicate newborn ultra thin skin. WaterWipes are effective yet ultra-mild, pure and gentle. WaterWipes are unlike any other baby wipe on the market, and have been produced using cutting-edge technology to give unrivalled mildness, purity and safety. <a href="http://waterwipes.com/us/product/baby-waterwipes/" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">waterwipes.com</a></td></tr><tr><td><br /><img alt="Green Scene Mom - Pearhead Giveaway" border="0" src="http://greenscenemom.com/images/giveaways/0814NewMom/pearhead.jpg" height="200" width="200" /></td><td><br /><strong>Pearhead</strong>Babyprints Photo Frame - $24.95<br /><br />This classic white wooden frame has spaces for your baby's handprint, footprint, and adorable photo. It's simply the easiest way to capture your baby's prints. Just press your baby's hand or foot onto the included "Clean-Touch" ink pad to reveal a detailed print. The baby's foot never touches the ink, so it's completely mess-free. Includes beveled mat stamped in silver with "My Little Prints". This keepsake frame is the perfect gift. <a href="http://pearhead.com/" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">pearhead.com</a></td></tr><tr><td><br /><img alt="Green Scene Mom - Toofeze Giveaway" border="0" src="http://greenscenemom.com/images/giveaways/0814NewMom/toofeze.jpg" height="200" width="200" /></td><td><br /><strong>Toofeze</strong>Baby Teether - $19.99<br /><br />Toofeze is recognized for its cutting-edge design and ability to soothe, calm and comfort fussy teething babies. Three distinct chewing surfaces made of food-grade ingredients. Stainless steel disk chills instantly in cold water for quick symptom relief. Soft silicone handle is never too cold to hold. Smooth contoured shape enables firm counter-pressure against erupting teeth. Toofeze allows babies to self-satisfy and self-manage their changing teething needs. <a href="http://toofeze.com/" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">toofeze.com</a></td></tr><tr><td><br /><img alt="Green Scene Mom - So Rad Giveaway" border="0" src="http://greenscenemom.com/images/giveaways/0814NewMom/so-rad.jpg" height="200" width="200" /></td><td><br /><strong>So Rad</strong>Magic Romper - $25<br /><br />So Rad's romper has short sleeves for warmer days, even featuring a rear access entry door for easy diaper changes. This romper has no snaps, buttons, velcro or zippers! The kimono style front opens up so bebe can squeeze his little chubs into it and it's made from bamboo and organic cotton. <a href="http://shopsorad.com/" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">shopsorad.com</a></td></tr><tr><td><br /><img alt="Green Scene Mom - Itzy Ritzy Giveaway" border="0" src="http://greenscenemom.com/images/giveaways/0814NewMom/itzy-ritzy.jpg" height="200" width="200" /></td><td><br /><strong>Itzy Ritzy</strong>Infinity nursing scarf - $24.99<br /><br />At Itzy Ritzy, we believe life on-the-go in style is possible. Our modern multi-purpose products pack a number of dazzling punches to provide attractive solutions to everyday challenges without making you do a lot of work. Now with a global presence with thousands of retailers, Itzy Ritzy is reinventing practical luxury for modern families around the world. We consider our job done when you get your job done in a stylish, exciting and refreshingly simple way. <a href="http://itzyritzy.com/" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">itzyritzy.com</a></td></tr><tr><td><br /><img alt="Green Scene Mom - Googaro Giveaway" border="0" src="http://greenscenemom.com/images/giveaways/0814NewMom/googaro.jpg" height="200" width="200" /></td><td><br /><strong>Googaro </strong>1 monthly box - $50<br /><br />Googaro is a subscription box service delivering the best, most exciting new products for tots 0-3 years of age. We want to simplify your life and help you discover incredible new products that are a perfect blend of practical, safe, stylish and fun. <a href="http://googaro.com/" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">googaro.com</a></td></tr><tr><td><br /><img alt="Green Scene Mom - Olli and Lime Giveaway" border="0" src="http://greenscenemom.com/images/giveaways/0814NewMom/ollie-and-lime.jpg" height="200" width="200" /></td><td><br /><strong>Olli and Lime</strong>Dots Decals pack of 50 - $20<br /><br />Olli &amp; Lime dots vinyl wall decals create a dramatic feature on your wall. Each pack includes 50 one-inch dots, in your choice of colors. Olli &amp; Lime designs modern nursery bedding and decor, for design-conscious parents. All products are made in the USA. <a href="http://olliandlime.com/" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">olliandlime.com</a></td></tr><tr><td><br /><img alt="Green Scene Mom - Earnest Eats Giveaway" border="0" src="http://greenscenemom.com/images/giveaways/0814NewMom/earnest-eats.jpg" height="200" width="200" /></td><td><br /><strong>Earnest Eats</strong>Superfood Snack Set - $130<br /><br />At Earnest Eats we uncomplicated good food choices by creating whole food happiness in everything we make. You'll feel great every time you eat one of our foods! Our <strong>Superfood Hot Cereals</strong> are made with Superfood Grains – Whole Oats + Quinoa + Amaranth – plus fruits, nuts and seeds like almonds, blueberries, chia seeds, cranberries, and unsweetened cocoa for an added powerhouse of protein, fiber and nutrition to fuel the day. Our<strong> Baked Whole Food Energy Bars</strong> are made with whole nuts, fruits, seeds, whole organic oats and superfood almond butter, baked in small batches in ovens for a soft cookie-like texture. No spray-on vitamins or protein powders. No corn, peanut or soy oils. Our <strong>Superfood Chewy Granola Bars</strong> are made with their Superfood Grain Blend – Whole Oats + Quinoa + Amaranth – providing slow-release energy along with protein, fiber and phytonutrients. All in under 150 Calories and 9g Sugar. <a href="http://earnesteats.com/" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">earnesteats.com</a></td></tr><tr><td><br /><img alt="Green Scene Mom - PAK Urban Survival Kit Giveaway" border="0" src="http://greenscenemom.com/images/giveaways/0814NewMom/pak.jpg" height="200" width="200" /></td><td><br /><strong>PAK</strong>Original Green PAK (28 of PAK's on-the-go essentials) + Micro Black PAK (up to 16 of PAK's most essential "pocket-sized" items) + a Towelette Gift Bag - $90</td></tr></tbody></table>The ultimate Urban Survival Kit: Unique kits stocked with personal care essentials needed on-the-go. PAK's product makes the perfect gift, ideal travel companion and a necessity for the girl on-the-go. It's there for you in a pinch, keeping you prepared for life's "misadventures". Moms are always doing a million things at once while going ninety miles an hour. PAK makes life a little less chaotic by putting all of your personal essentials into one compact place. Keep it together with PAK. <a href="http://thepakstore.com/" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">thepakstore.com</a><br /><br /> <br /><br /><h3>Prize Gift Set - Retail Value $1,200</h3><img alt="New Mommy Giveaway prizes - Green Scene Mom" border="0" src="http://greenscenemom.com/images/giveaways/0814NewMom/new-mommy-giveaway-prizes.jpg" style="display: block; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;" width="650px" /><br /><div style="text-align: center;">Open to the US - Ends 11:59PM 8/13/2014</div><a class="rafl" href="http://www.rafflecopter.com/rafl/display/c921242735/" id="rc-c921242735" rel="nofollow">a Rafflecopter giveaway</a><br /><script src="//widget.rafflecopter.com/load.js"></script><br /><br /><div class="nopin"><img alt="signature photo signature.png" border="0" src="http://i277.photobucket.com/albums/kk53/jhein815/Blog%20Design/signature.png" /><br /><br /><center><a href="https://twitter.com/share" target="_blank"><img alt="tweet this!" border="0" src="http://i277.photobucket.com/albums/kk53/jhein815/Blog%20Design/tweet-2.png" /></a><a href="http://www.facebook.com/TheNaptownOrganizer" target="_blank"><img alt="follow on fb" border="0" src="http://i277.photobucket.com/albums/kk53/jhein815/Blog%20Design/follow-on-facebook.png" /></a><a href="javascript:void((function()%7Bvar%20e=document.createElement('script');e.setAttribute('type','text/javascript');e.setAttribute('charset','UTF-8');e.setAttribute('src','http://assets.pinterest.com/js/pinmarklet.js?r='+Math.random()*99999999);document.body.appendChild(e)%7D)());"><img src="http://i277.photobucket.com/albums/kk53/jhein815/Blog%20Design/pin-2.png" /></a></center><center><div class="pf_ads" id="pf_25600"><script src="http://load.passionfruitads.com/a/804c0b3baeb0bec163a097303aa7151edb63abcd.js" type="text/javascript"></script></div></center></div>the naptown organizerhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/07065433185128079044noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-276425142143445412.post-33737622895845289832014-08-01T04:00:00.000-04:002014-08-01T04:00:01.708-04:00How to utilize Google Analytics data to transform your blog!As you all have seen posted on the blog, I recently gave a talk at BlogHer '14 on blogging analytics.<br /><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-Ll9j4VF6FB0/U9hqmvIch1I/AAAAAAAAEtc/mF9qO_DmIPg/s1600/analytics+presentation+tab.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img alt="blogging analytics, functional use of google analytics, how to use google analytics to increase pageviews" border="0" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-Ll9j4VF6FB0/U9hqmvIch1I/AAAAAAAAEtc/mF9qO_DmIPg/s1600/analytics+presentation+tab.jpg" height="640" title="" width="640" /></a></div><br /><br /><i>Nerd glasses? &nbsp;On. &nbsp;</i><br /><i><br /></i>While I absolutely love a good analytics course, I often find that most sessions talk about only <b>how to find</b>&nbsp;your numbers and not <b>how to apply</b>&nbsp;your numbers. &nbsp;My session was mainly focused on providing real, take-away nuggets to help you find your top posts, optimize how those posts are seen and viewed, and then learn how to repeat your patterns to continue your blogging success!<br /><br />I mentioned to a few of the ladies who attended my session that I'd post online so they wouldn't have to take a million notes, so here are the slides! &nbsp;Please check out the link below and feel free to contact me if you have any questions whatsoever!<br /><br /><div style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://drive.google.com/file/d/0Bwa_wYSHsNnIZnhITDUzOWtrWVU/edit?usp=sharing" target="_blank">How to Utilize Analtyics to Transform Your Blog!</a></div><br /><div class="nopin"><img alt="signature photo signature.png" border="0" src="http://i277.photobucket.com/albums/kk53/jhein815/Blog%20Design/signature.png" /><br /><br /><center><a href="https://twitter.com/share" target="_blank"><img alt="tweet this!" border="0" src="http://i277.photobucket.com/albums/kk53/jhein815/Blog%20Design/tweet-2.png" /></a><a href="http://www.facebook.com/TheNaptownOrganizer" target="_blank"><img alt="follow on fb" border="0" src="http://i277.photobucket.com/albums/kk53/jhein815/Blog%20Design/follow-on-facebook.png" /></a><a href="javascript:void((function()%7Bvar%20e=document.createElement('script');e.setAttribute('type','text/javascript');e.setAttribute('charset','UTF-8');e.setAttribute('src','http://assets.pinterest.com/js/pinmarklet.js?r='+Math.random()*99999999);document.body.appendChild(e)%7D)());"><img src="http://i277.photobucket.com/albums/kk53/jhein815/Blog%20Design/pin-2.png" /></a></center><center><div class="pf_ads" id="pf_25600"><script src="http://load.passionfruitads.com/a/804c0b3baeb0bec163a097303aa7151edb63abcd.js" type="text/javascript"></script></div></center></div>the naptown organizerhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/07065433185128079044noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-276425142143445412.post-52683501707265637572014-07-30T05:30:00.000-04:002014-07-30T05:30:00.574-04:00What I wore - BlogHer '14<div class="" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">Last year I did a post about the <a href="http://www.thenaptownorganizer.com/2013/07/first-things-first-what-i-wore-to.html" target="_blank">clothing I wore to BlogHer '13</a>. &nbsp;Mainly I had gone out, shopped for new clothes, carefully picked outfits, and then delicately packed away those outfits with care for Chicago.<br /><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-HLM-Eis0OuY/U9cyTuplgtI/AAAAAAAAEtE/q8BlHM_mIaQ/s1600/What+I+wore+(1).png" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-HLM-Eis0OuY/U9cyTuplgtI/AAAAAAAAEtE/q8BlHM_mIaQ/s1600/What+I+wore+(1).png" height="640" width="640" /></a></div><br /></div><br /><i>This year?</i><br /><i><br /></i>I dumped the excess crackers out of my purse and re-visited a bunch of clothing items I already had hanging in my closet. &nbsp;I did re-purpose several of the outfits or in general re-wear several of the outfits from last year, with a few new pieces thrown in that I'd picked up along the way since the last conference. <br /><br />This year's photos were taken by my absolutely FANTASTIC roommate/should-be professional photographer, <a href="http://www.themaidenmetallurgist.com/" target="_blank">Drea from The Maiden Metallurgist</a>. &nbsp;If you want to check out some fantastic photos, her site is the place to visit!!!<br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div>Without further ado, here are this year's photos!<br /><br /><table cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="float: left; margin-right: 1em; text-align: left;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-RHmqQMZ_qOc/U9chwMY_eoI/AAAAAAAAEsI/jCCCiW3z9xM/s1600/3.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img alt="what I wore to BlogHer '14, fashion, style, hair, dutch braid" border="0" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-RHmqQMZ_qOc/U9chwMY_eoI/AAAAAAAAEsI/jCCCiW3z9xM/s1600/3.jpg" height="424" title="" width="640" /></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Travel hair - Dutch braid.</td></tr></tbody></table><br /><table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-G-ecNdw6gOY/U9chxnRRGJI/AAAAAAAAEsc/jqVMzNXaDoM/s1600/8.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img alt="what I wore to BlogHer '14, fashion, style" border="0" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-G-ecNdw6gOY/U9chxnRRGJI/AAAAAAAAEsc/jqVMzNXaDoM/s1600/8.jpg" height="640" title="" width="426" /></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Saturday's sessions- purple cigarette pants and polka dot top.</td></tr></tbody></table><table cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="float: left; margin-right: 1em; text-align: left;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-Es1ZWeYNYK8/U9chxElB8_I/AAAAAAAAEsg/2STv5I9vFf8/s1600/6.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img alt="what I wore to BlogHer '14, fashion, style" border="0" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-Es1ZWeYNYK8/U9chxElB8_I/AAAAAAAAEsg/2STv5I9vFf8/s1600/6.jpg" height="426" title="" width="640" /></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Friday's Sessions {&amp; MY Geek Bar Session} - Navy wrap dress &amp; funky jewelry.</td></tr></tbody></table><table cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="float: left; margin-right: 1em; text-align: left;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/--RULKu8PsHo/U9chwrhvyRI/AAAAAAAAEso/-JQibOyTxLE/s1600/4.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img alt="what I wore to BlogHer '14, fashion, style" border="0" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/--RULKu8PsHo/U9chwrhvyRI/AAAAAAAAEso/-JQibOyTxLE/s1600/4.jpg" height="426" title="" width="640" /></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Wednesday night - pajamas and glasses. &nbsp;Does this look like Laura Prepon to anyone else?</td></tr></tbody></table><br /><table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-NMTXJoSWTwc/U9chwwsNkhI/AAAAAAAAEsQ/KYGxSlxhM3E/s1600/5.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img alt="what I wore to BlogHer '14, fashion, style" border="0" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-NMTXJoSWTwc/U9chwwsNkhI/AAAAAAAAEsQ/KYGxSlxhM3E/s1600/5.jpg" height="640" title="" width="426" /></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Thursday's parties {Blogger Baby Shower &amp; Eppa Sangria Soiree} and Evening at the Expo.</td></tr></tbody></table><table cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="float: left; margin-right: 1em; text-align: left;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-x243dHWDXaA/U9chwCoGlxI/AAAAAAAAEs0/OAWeoq5HGNk/s1600/2.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img alt="what I wore to BlogHer '14, fashion, style" border="0" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-x243dHWDXaA/U9chwCoGlxI/AAAAAAAAEs0/OAWeoq5HGNk/s1600/2.jpg" height="426" title="" width="640" /></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Repeat from above just because I LOVE this photo!</td></tr></tbody></table><br /><table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-T1W5Ha_iE5s/U9chx158OiI/AAAAAAAAEss/zDm2hwDR2EQ/s1600/9.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img alt="what I wore to BlogHer '14, fashion, style" border="0" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-T1W5Ha_iE5s/U9chx158OiI/AAAAAAAAEss/zDm2hwDR2EQ/s1600/9.jpg" height="640" title="" width="424" /></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Saturday night's skirt/top for the {hot, outside} closing party.</td></tr></tbody></table><table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-6nwKpCm2TwM/U9chxQOHQKI/AAAAAAAAEsk/h3lhmmj3aCg/s1600/7.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img alt="what I wore to BlogHer '14, fashion, style" border="0" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-6nwKpCm2TwM/U9chxQOHQKI/AAAAAAAAEsk/h3lhmmj3aCg/s1600/7.jpg" height="640" title="" width="426" /></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Friday night's party dress!</td></tr></tbody></table><table cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="float: left; margin-right: 1em; text-align: left;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-3aNfh9MJ5Pg/U9chwBSX1XI/AAAAAAAAEs4/SWHMd4PvAyA/s1600/1.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img alt="what I wore to BlogHer '14, fashion, style" border="0" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-3aNfh9MJ5Pg/U9chwBSX1XI/AAAAAAAAEs4/SWHMd4PvAyA/s1600/1.jpg" height="424" title="" width="640" /></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Wednesday's travel outfit - blue shorts, a white flowy top, and a green chevron scarf.</td></tr></tbody></table><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><div class="nopin"><br /><br /><br /><br />If you can't tell by the smiles for miles in the photos - I had an amazing time. &nbsp;Stick around this week for a sum up BlogHer '14 posts and information {including slides!} from my Analytics presentation!<br /><br /><img alt="signature photo signature.png" border="0" src="http://i277.photobucket.com/albums/kk53/jhein815/Blog%20Design/signature.png" /><br /><br /><center><a href="https://twitter.com/share" target="_blank"><img alt="tweet this!" border="0" src="http://i277.photobucket.com/albums/kk53/jhein815/Blog%20Design/tweet-2.png" /></a><a href="http://www.facebook.com/TheNaptownOrganizer" target="_blank"><img alt="follow on fb" border="0" src="http://i277.photobucket.com/albums/kk53/jhein815/Blog%20Design/follow-on-facebook.png" /></a><a href="javascript:void((function()%7Bvar%20e=document.createElement('script');e.setAttribute('type','text/javascript');e.setAttribute('charset','UTF-8');e.setAttribute('src','http://assets.pinterest.com/js/pinmarklet.js?r='+Math.random()*99999999);document.body.appendChild(e)%7D)());"><img src="http://i277.photobucket.com/albums/kk53/jhein815/Blog%20Design/pin-2.png" /></a></center><center><div class="pf_ads" id="pf_25600"><script src="http://load.passionfruitads.com/a/804c0b3baeb0bec163a097303aa7151edb63abcd.js" type="text/javascript"></script></div></center></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"></div>the naptown organizerhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/07065433185128079044noreply@blogger.com10tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-276425142143445412.post-90194810284386768612014-07-28T23:26:00.001-04:002014-07-28T23:26:30.975-04:00Keeping it cool - Summer Babywearing Tips & Tricks with Wrapsody!<i>* Disclosure - I was provided with two wraps from the fantastic babywearing company&nbsp;<a href="http://wrapsodybaby.com/" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">Wrapsody</a>&nbsp;to facilitate the inspiration for this post! &nbsp;All opinions and tips are 100% honest and my own!</i><br /><br />Oh, summer.<br /><br />At just the mention of the word I hear children happily splashing around a pool, the ice cream truck coming down the street, and the clink of ice in a glass of crisp lemonade.<br /><br /><i>Sounds great, right?</i><br /><i><br /></i><br /><table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody><tr><td><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-8osI4gLwqdc/U8WFglYII2I/AAAAAAAAEpk/PjnZ0j-Pgsg/s1600/wrapsody+wrapduo+summer+babywearing+options+1.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-8osI4gLwqdc/U8WFglYII2I/AAAAAAAAEpk/PjnZ0j-Pgsg/s1600/wrapsody+wrapduo+summer+babywearing+options+1.jpg" height="640" width="452" /></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="font-size: 13.333333969116211px;">Wrapsody WrapDuo in a Front Wrap Cross Carry</td></tr></tbody></table>For our family, summer tends to be a time where we really get out and about the town. &nbsp;Trips to the park, play dates, the pool, or even just frequent trips of multiple errands seem much easier and more enjoyable when the weather is warm.<br /><br />But, as a parent of a young child, summer could also mean trying to push a stroller through grassy fields at the park to follow your toddler, breaking a sweat while attempting to hold your baby in your arms and do anything else at the same time, or having to lug a stroller in and out of your car at every errand along your way.<br /><br />Don't get me wrong - there are times when I'm glad to have a stroller, but thankfully, we babywear through many of these situations to make life&nbsp;<b>much</b>&nbsp;easier for our family. &nbsp;That, however, brings on a whole slew of questions from friends, family, and&nbsp;<a href="http://bwiofcentralindiana.wordpress.com/" target="_blank">my local BWI-area chapter</a>&nbsp;members.<br /><br /><i>What are the coolest baby carriers for the summer?</i><br /><i><br /></i><i>What if baby/I/both of us get hot? &nbsp;Any tips for keeping cool&nbsp;</i><b><i>in</i>&nbsp;</b><i>our existing carrier?</i><br /><i><br /></i><i>Are there any options for wearing baby in the pool/lake/ocean?</i><br /><i><br /></i>Let's start by talking about cool baby carriers. &nbsp;I've found there to be two basic, tried-and-true methods of choosing a baby carrier to keep you and your baby cool - choosing an option with&nbsp;<b>cooler material</b>&nbsp;or choosing an option with&nbsp;<b>less material</b>.<br /><br /><table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody><tr><td><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/--gA8dpfIALI/U8htpHrhE5I/AAAAAAAAEp0/HxKPOZrP7wE/s1600/wrapsody+orion+breeze.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/--gA8dpfIALI/U8htpHrhE5I/AAAAAAAAEp0/HxKPOZrP7wE/s1600/wrapsody+orion+breeze.jpg" height="640" width="474" /></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="font-size: 13.333333969116211px;">Wrapsody Breeze Orion in a Front Wrap Cross Carry</td></tr></tbody></table>Babywearing options with more breathable material include things like linen or cotton gauze can be a fantastic choice for light, cool way to carry your baby. &nbsp;Of the two, I find a good woven cotton gauze to be the lightest in fabric. &nbsp;Because the the fabric is so thin, you can get away with more layers of a gauze wrap while still feeling as cool as possible! &nbsp;A pro tip for a gauze wrap, like the&nbsp;<a href="http://wrapsodybaby.com/product-category/breeze-wrap/" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">Wrapsody Breeze Orion</a>&nbsp;pictured above, would be to carefully spread your fabric or passes while wrapping to ensure a really comfy carry!<br /><br /><i>{Newbie tip? &nbsp;If you are transitioning from a stretchy wrap to a woven wrap for the first time, I find woven cotton gauze to be a more forgiving fabric than other woven wrap fabrics for a new learner!}</i><br /><i><br /></i>When considering how to use less material while wearing your baby, you may find the best options to be carriers or wraps with less passes or layers over you and baby, especially for cotton or heavier fabric wraps. &nbsp;Carries like front cross carry or rucksack back carry place less fabric over you and your baby.<br /><br />It may also be beneficial to consider the layers&nbsp;<b>you &amp; your baby</b>&nbsp;are wearing. &nbsp;I tend to dress my little ones and myself very lightly when I know we'll be wearing for a longer period of time. &nbsp;Typically, on a day out I will have my 18 month old daughter in a light onesie/diaper and myself in a tank top or loose/airy t-shirt and shorts. &nbsp;Another option to check out is wearing athletic-inspired clothing while wearing your baby. &nbsp;I've found that athletic tops designed to wick away sweat and stay cool are also fantastic pieces of clothing to adorn while wearing your baby - thus decreasing heavy, bulky, hot layers of material between the two of you.<br /><br />While we're on the topic of<i>&nbsp;keeping things cool between you &amp; your baby</i>, I recently found an awesome way to stay comfortable by adding one simple accessory to your babywearing routine - a cooling towel. &nbsp;Construction workers have been using these towels for quite some time, but the idea is that you can wet the towel and due to the materials used to make the towel - it will stay cool for several hours. &nbsp;When the towel ceases to cool any longer, you can just re-wet it, wring it out, and use it again. &nbsp;My lovely, thoughtful husband heard me talk about cooling towels and picked one up for me on his next trip to our local hardware store. &nbsp;I wet the towel, placed it between my daughter and I, and promptly went on a walk with the kids in the hot sun feeling a lot less sweaty and hot.<br /><br /><table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody><tr><td><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-DJMo899fiRQ/U8h_cSlhHeI/AAAAAAAAEqI/DcSB70SQsXA/s1600/babywearing+cooling+towels.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-DJMo899fiRQ/U8h_cSlhHeI/AAAAAAAAEqI/DcSB70SQsXA/s1600/babywearing+cooling+towels.jpg" height="640" width="410" /></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="font-size: 13.333333969116211px;">The cooling towel DH purchased!</td></tr></tbody></table>One other inexpensive option to stay comfortable is purchasing a keychain misting fan to keep attached to your key ring, belt loop, or purse/wristlet. &nbsp;That way, when you &amp; baby get warm you can spritz a few mists of cool water through your fan to feel refreshed again!<br /><br />Speaking of the water... &nbsp;Babywearing in the water - whether that be a pool, ocean, or lake - also just happens to be one of my&nbsp;<b>favorite</b>&nbsp;ways to carry my children in the summer.<br /><br /><table cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="float: left; margin-right: 1em;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-q3ok4s7itRw/U8iAkKNSywI/AAAAAAAAEqQ/xoOFGdoCSAo/s1600/babywearing+water+options.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-q3ok4s7itRw/U8iAkKNSywI/AAAAAAAAEqQ/xoOFGdoCSAo/s1600/babywearing+water+options.jpg" height="410" width="640" /></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="font-size: 13.333333969116211px; text-align: center;">Wearing the Wrapsody WrapDuo in a Front Wrap Cross Carry</td></tr></tbody></table><br /><br />For whatever reason, my babies always tend to be very tentative about the water {even the kiddie pool} initially. &nbsp;Being able to snuggle my babies next to me in a water wrap or sling makes them feel so much more secure and comfortable, and turns a trip to the pool into a relaxing, gentle dip as opposed to a scary, emotion-filled dunk. <br /><br />While wearing your baby in warm climates or during the hottest months of the year in your area can be different than babywearing in cooler temperatures, there are certainly many options of how to make keeping your baby close comfortable! <br /><br /><i>What are your favorite warm weather babywearing tips?</i><br /><i><br /></i><br /><div class="nopin"><img alt="signature photo signature.png" border="0" src="http://i277.photobucket.com/albums/kk53/jhein815/Blog%20Design/signature.png" /><br /><br /><center><a href="https://twitter.com/share" target="_blank"><img alt="tweet this!" border="0" src="http://i277.photobucket.com/albums/kk53/jhein815/Blog%20Design/tweet-2.png" /></a><a href="http://www.facebook.com/TheNaptownOrganizer" target="_blank"><img alt="follow on fb" border="0" src="http://i277.photobucket.com/albums/kk53/jhein815/Blog%20Design/follow-on-facebook.png" /></a><a href="javascript:void((function()%7Bvar%20e=document.createElement('script');e.setAttribute('type','text/javascript');e.setAttribute('charset','UTF-8');e.setAttribute('src','http://assets.pinterest.com/js/pinmarklet.js?r='+Math.random()*99999999);document.body.appendChild(e)%7D)());"><img src="http://i277.photobucket.com/albums/kk53/jhein815/Blog%20Design/pin-2.png" /></a></center><center><div class="pf_ads" id="pf_25600"><script src="http://load.passionfruitads.com/a/804c0b3baeb0bec163a097303aa7151edb63abcd.js" type="text/javascript"></script></div></center></div>the naptown organizerhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/07065433185128079044noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-276425142143445412.post-53606128032414160412014-07-24T12:56:00.002-04:002014-07-24T12:56:43.398-04:00Bad things happen in rules of three? {or more, maybe?} AKA our Intro to BlogHer '14Oh my goodness, guys.<br /><br />The past day or two have been a crazy comedy of errors and start to BlogHer '14. &nbsp;Thankfully, I'm now officially in San Jose and cannot wait for the conference to start, but the getting here of it was a bit rocky.<br /><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-GrpVOmdKGW0/U9E5ukxi9hI/AAAAAAAAEqo/Fa2NQ6zKLFg/s1600/photo+1.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-GrpVOmdKGW0/U9E5ukxi9hI/AAAAAAAAEqo/Fa2NQ6zKLFg/s1600/photo+1.JPG" height="640" width="640" /></a></div><br /><br />It started as planned when I drove up to Chicago on Tuesday night. &nbsp;Instead of flying out of Indianapolis {which would have been more expensive and required several connections}, I chose a less expensive flight from Chicago that was non-stop to San Jose. &nbsp;I stayed the night with my parents and planned to fly out early Wednesday morning.<br /><br />Well, the day immediately began with a bump as I slept through three alarms. &nbsp;<i>Three. &nbsp;</i>How do I even do that? &nbsp;Anyway, my mom had to wake me up {I left the house feeling slightly like a teenager again, lol.} and I very quickly threw on yesterday's clothes, grabbed a banana, and ran out the door.<br /><br />I was running just a twidge late at that point, but still was on course to make it to the airport with 1 hour and 30 minutes in advance instead of the normal 2 hours it's recommended to plan for when flying. &nbsp;I parked my car, entered the Midway airport, and promptly realized that American Airlines <b>doesn't fly through Midway</b>. <br /><br /><i>Um, crap.</i><br /><i><br /></i>I don't know how I did that guys. &nbsp;I was so nervous about flying for the first time in 7 years that I focused so much on the time of the flight that I completely missed the <b>place</b>&nbsp;of the flight. &nbsp;I hopped the shuttle back to my car, popped the O'Hare airport address into my GPS, and off I went again. <br /><br />By that time it was roughly 8:00 a.m., and my flight was scheduled to leave O'Hare at 8:30. &nbsp;Unfortunately, I missed my flight sitting in rush hour traffic unable to even GET to the airport before it departed. <br /><br /><i>{Thank you to my very loving, wonderful husband, my still-half sleeping mom, and my friend and '14 roomie <a href="http://www.themaidenmetallurgist.com/" target="_blank">Drea</a> for all the kind and reassuring words in the car on the way to O'Hare, I love you all.}</i><br /><i><br /></i>When I finally got to O'Hare, I parked my car and shuttled into the airport with my luggage. &nbsp;I checked with a ticketing agent {the time was now probably 9:00a} who informed me that there were two other flights to San Jose that day, at 10:45a and 7p - but that both were overbooked with standby waiting lists. &nbsp;She also told me their flights for the next day to San Jose were also already overbooked. &nbsp;All the other flights they had that day with connections were also overbooked. <br /><br />Basically, I had the option of trying to fly standby on the 10:45 flight at the tail end of a list of 20 standby passengers in front of me, or I could buy a new ticket for another airplane.<br /><br />Since by that point it had turned into 9:30, I thought I'd take my chance on waiting for the 10:45a flight while researching other airlines. <br /><br />As I sat and waited {in between intermittently crying to the gate agent and utterly freaking out}, I contacted Delta and purchased a second {thankfully refundable} one-way ticket where I would leave Chicago at 3p, fly into Minneapolis, and then finally make it into San Jose at 9p. &nbsp;I felt a little better to have another option {albeit an option that was going to cost me $360 more in addition to the $480 I'd already spent on my first ticket}, but that still stung quite a bit. &nbsp;And, the person who never flies was going to have to take two flights due to the connection as opposed to just the one that I mentally thought I could handle.<br /><br />Thankfully, and by that I mean I was thanking ALL THE THINGS, I made it onto the 10:45 standby flight. &nbsp;I don't know how, but I did. &nbsp;DH promptly cancelled the Delta flight for me and off I went, straight to San Jose with no layovers or connections.<br /><br /><table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-3CUjWL16MDE/U9E5v61H1XI/AAAAAAAAErI/NAAtyTqbIMc/s1600/photo+2.PNG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-3CUjWL16MDE/U9E5v61H1XI/AAAAAAAAErI/NAAtyTqbIMc/s1600/photo+2.PNG" height="640" width="360" /></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Thank all that is thankable.</td></tr></tbody></table>Since Drea was initially supposed to arrive after me, but now ended up there an hour and a half before me, she had to hang back in the secured passenger area of the airport to be able to eat while she waited and missed picking up her bag. &nbsp;Once I finally did arrive, we had to take a bus to the other terminal at the airport and attempt to find where her bag had been transported - which included a long line of people who were very upset about their bags being diverted to another airport.<br /><br /><table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-KxRVXp_cNC0/U9E5xw_LBtI/AAAAAAAAErY/RQHSajyRZ64/s1600/photo+3.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-KxRVXp_cNC0/U9E5xw_LBtI/AAAAAAAAErY/RQHSajyRZ64/s1600/photo+3.JPG" height="640" width="480" /></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Bag waiting.</td></tr></tbody></table>Fortunately, it was a relatively quick and painless task to find her bag. &nbsp;Once we grabbed it and went outside, however - it was a different story. &nbsp;We had ordered an Uber cab to pick us up since we had a free $30 voucher each for Drea signing up, but once the Uber driver arrived 3 mins later {literally the second he pulled into the airport}, he was given a ticket for not having some sort of sticker. <br /><br />Poor guy mentioned he'd been a driver for over four years and this is the first ticket he's ever gotten. &nbsp;Although, from what the officer described, it was really a ticket {for <b>$250</b>, &nbsp;yikes} that Uber needed to pay since they weren't requiring their drivers to have said sticker to pick folks up at the airport. &nbsp;The driver continued to be very sweet, though, and dropped us off a few minutes later at our hotel.<br /><br />Oh, the hotel. <br /><br />The Hilton San Jose was very nice at first glance and we had no wait or issue checking into our room, but once we headed upstairs to look at our room, it was a little different experience.<br /><br /><table cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="float: left; margin-right: 1em; text-align: left;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-BDPAcjooGqs/U9E5yS3TnEI/AAAAAAAAErc/rnQQNspLkOk/s1600/photo+4.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-BDPAcjooGqs/U9E5yS3TnEI/AAAAAAAAErc/rnQQNspLkOk/s1600/photo+4.JPG" height="480" width="640" /></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">View from our first room!</td></tr></tbody></table><br /><br />As soon as we walked into the room, Drea &amp; I both noticed a rather funky smell. &nbsp;We thought maybe the room just needed airing out, opened a window, unpacked all of our things, and left to go to Walgreens to buy some water and other necessities. &nbsp;When we returned, we expected for the smell to be cleared out and we could go about our way. <br /><br /><i>It had not.</i><br /><i><br /></i>A few minutes later, we noticed a very wet spot on the floor next to the air conditioner. &nbsp;After a quick call downstairs, a maintenance worker was up within minutes and diagnosed the problem as being the air conditioner. &nbsp;He proceeded to start to shop vac the area while we waited for a new room. <br /><br /><table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-gGRB-N1Dzf0/U9E5wAN2CaI/AAAAAAAAErE/Zo4k5z7JiFU/s1600/photo+1+%25282%2529.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-gGRB-N1Dzf0/U9E5wAN2CaI/AAAAAAAAErE/Zo4k5z7JiFU/s1600/photo+1+%25282%2529.JPG" height="640" width="480" /></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Re-packing while listening to the lovely tune of the Shop Vac</td></tr></tbody></table>Finally, we were able to get into our new room and get settled in. <br /><br /><table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-Jli0O38Umvs/U9E5wSABCmI/AAAAAAAAErA/NHhvf2BskMc/s1600/photo+2.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-Jli0O38Umvs/U9E5wSABCmI/AAAAAAAAErA/NHhvf2BskMc/s1600/photo+2.JPG" height="640" width="480" /></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Which meant wine and chocolate.</td></tr></tbody></table><table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-6pE-XUz0XSw/U9E5wj9fUEI/AAAAAAAAErM/YmD9DR5MBCU/s1600/photo+3+%25282%2529.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-6pE-XUz0XSw/U9E5wj9fUEI/AAAAAAAAErM/YmD9DR5MBCU/s1600/photo+3+%25282%2529.JPG" height="300" width="400" /></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">And lots of snuggles and smiles!</td></tr></tbody></table>We haven't had any other snafus since that time, but here's to hoping that was all the crazy we needed from BlogHer '14 and that the rest of the trip will be easily enjoyable!<br /><br /><div class="nopin"><img alt="signature photo signature.png" border="0" src="http://i277.photobucket.com/albums/kk53/jhein815/Blog%20Design/signature.png" /><br /><br /><center><a href="https://twitter.com/share" target="_blank"><img alt="tweet this!" border="0" src="http://i277.photobucket.com/albums/kk53/jhein815/Blog%20Design/tweet-2.png" /></a><a href="http://www.facebook.com/TheNaptownOrganizer" target="_blank"><img alt="follow on fb" border="0" src="http://i277.photobucket.com/albums/kk53/jhein815/Blog%20Design/follow-on-facebook.png" /></a><a href="javascript:void((function()%7Bvar%20e=document.createElement('script');e.setAttribute('type','text/javascript');e.setAttribute('charset','UTF-8');e.setAttribute('src','http://assets.pinterest.com/js/pinmarklet.js?r='+Math.random()*99999999);document.body.appendChild(e)%7D)());"><img src="http://i277.photobucket.com/albums/kk53/jhein815/Blog%20Design/pin-2.png" /></a></center><center><div class="pf_ads" id="pf_25600"><script src="http://load.passionfruitads.com/a/804c0b3baeb0bec163a097303aa7151edb63abcd.js" type="text/javascript"></script></div></center></div>the naptown organizerhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/07065433185128079044noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-276425142143445412.post-71599728061490397002014-07-22T12:16:00.003-04:002014-07-22T12:16:34.295-04:00BlogHer '14, here I come!As of later tonight, I leave for BlogHer '14! &nbsp;I am so lucky and fortunate to be able to <b>speak</b>&nbsp;at the conference this year, so if you're in San Jose, check me out at my <a href="http://www.blogher.com/blogher-14-geek-bar-9-geeky-blogs-follow" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">Geek Bar session on Analytics</a>!<br /><br />While at the conference, I'll be shacking it up with my amazing and gorgeous friend <a href="http://www.themaidenmetallurgist.com/" target="_blank">Drea from The Maiden Metallurgist</a>. &nbsp;Look forward to lots of Instagram photos during the trip! &nbsp;You can find me on <a href="http://instagram.com/thenaptownorganizer" target="_blank">The Naptown Organizer Instagram page</a>!<br /><br />This year's conference will be a lot <b>less</b>&nbsp;hectic and a lot more enjoyable as I'm only attending two, BlogHer-sponsored, private parties. &nbsp;I'll be posting a little more about the conference and parties after I get back home, but wanted to share a bit of info before I leave as well!<br /><br />One of my favorite events from last year that I'm attending once again is the <a href="http://thebabyladies.com/the-baby-ladies-blogher-baby-shower/" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">Blogger Baby Shower</a>! &nbsp;The Baby Ladies, along with <a href="http://babysfirsttest.org/" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">Baby's First Test</a> and <a href="http://savebabies.org/" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">Save Babies Through Screening</a>, are hosting a fantastic, education-filled event to further their cause of increasing awareness for life-saving newborn screening procedures! &nbsp;The event last year was filled with information, demonstrations, fantastic atmosphere, great friends, and some <b>pretty amazing swag</b>. &nbsp;You can check out my post from <a href="http://www.thenaptownorganizer.com/2013/09/cora-beautiful-child-who-is-changing.html" target="_blank">last year's baby shower here</a>!<br /><br /><i>See you all in San Jose!!!</i><br /><br /><div class="nopin"><img alt="signature photo signature.png" border="0" src="http://i277.photobucket.com/albums/kk53/jhein815/Blog%20Design/signature.png" /><br /><br /><center><a href="https://twitter.com/share" target="_blank"><img alt="tweet this!" border="0" src="http://i277.photobucket.com/albums/kk53/jhein815/Blog%20Design/tweet-2.png" /></a><a href="http://www.facebook.com/TheNaptownOrganizer" target="_blank"><img alt="follow on fb" border="0" src="http://i277.photobucket.com/albums/kk53/jhein815/Blog%20Design/follow-on-facebook.png" /></a><a href="javascript:void((function()%7Bvar%20e=document.createElement('script');e.setAttribute('type','text/javascript');e.setAttribute('charset','UTF-8');e.setAttribute('src','http://assets.pinterest.com/js/pinmarklet.js?r='+Math.random()*99999999);document.body.appendChild(e)%7D)());"><img src="http://i277.photobucket.com/albums/kk53/jhein815/Blog%20Design/pin-2.png" /></a></center><center><div class="pf_ads" id="pf_25600"><script src="http://load.passionfruitads.com/a/804c0b3baeb0bec163a097303aa7151edb63abcd.js" type="text/javascript"></script></div></center></div>the naptown organizerhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/07065433185128079044noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-276425142143445412.post-39288051794691262292014-07-14T22:48:00.000-04:002014-07-14T22:48:21.455-04:00My early PiYo results {and progress photos!!!}*<i>This post contains links to my personal business page- because I'm addicted to this program, for sure. &nbsp;Message me with any questions you all may have!&nbsp;</i><br /><i><br /></i><i>Deep breath, y'all.</i><br /><i><br /></i>I recently decided to make a change in my life. <br /><br />To be totally honest, I really have evolved as a person quite a bit since having children. &nbsp;I actually have grown to a point where I <b>deeply love</b>&nbsp;my body in all of it's imperfections and tiny details, and I am so thankful for this body that has birthed and fed my two babies for years. &nbsp;I wear my features proudly, no matter how different they look from a magazine model's body. <br /><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-doVj8HDS4No/U74GqCHWbHI/AAAAAAAAEpE/xOG0HxiZCZA/s1600/PiYo+before+and+after+results+two.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-doVj8HDS4No/U74GqCHWbHI/AAAAAAAAEpE/xOG0HxiZCZA/s1600/PiYo+before+and+after+results+two.jpg" height="640" width="410" /></a></div><br />With that said, I've also been doing some things to my body that aren't so healthy lately.<br /><br />Prior to Little Man's birth, I was completely vegan and did quite a bit more exercising than my days have included recently. &nbsp;Unfortunately after both of our kids were born, I lapsed back into a pattern of very intermittent exercise and was eating much more unhealthy food than I should have been.<br /><br />And, even more unfortunately, I'd begun to have a lot more aches and pains than I'd had in the past. &nbsp;Low back pain, knee pain, wrist pain - I had it all. &nbsp;I have several family members with debilitating back issues, so the back pain especially scared me quite a bit. &nbsp;To make sure my body was in a place where that didn't become a consistent issue, I knew I had to get my body back into better shape with exercise and better nutrition.<br /><br />A friend of mine who is a BeachBody coach suggested that I try <a href="http://www.beachbodycoach.com/esuite/home/THENAPTOWNMAMA" target="_blank">a new program called PiYo</a>. &nbsp;I'd previously tried beachbody programs with not the best result. &nbsp;Because of my knee pain, all the jumping and bouncing around in the program I tried made it physically impossible for me to finish. &nbsp;I was nervous about all of that, but my friend knew about all my issues and assured me that this was the program for me.<br /><br /><b>And, man was she so right on.</b><br /><b><br /></b>Since starting the PiYo {a fusion of Pilates and Yoga} program and <a href="http://www.beachbodycoach.com/esuite/home/THENAPTOWNMAMA" target="_blank">Shakeology</a> {a seriously filling, meal-replacing, right-up-my-alley, superfood-filled shake that includes ingredients such as quinoa, chia, flax, acai, goji berry, green tea, spinach, kale, spirulina, and so much more - and has <i>vegan</i>&nbsp;options!} a few weeks ago, I've completely noticed a difference in my body.<br /><br /><table cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="float: left; margin-right: 1em; text-align: left;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-wFgX6r5Ij18/U74CwWFPwaI/AAAAAAAAEo4/hOCvlz3P1Tk/s1600/PiYo+before+and+after+results.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-wFgX6r5Ij18/U74CwWFPwaI/AAAAAAAAEo4/hOCvlz3P1Tk/s1600/PiYo+before+and+after+results.jpg" height="426" width="640" /></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">I have muscles! &nbsp;And this action-shot outside play moment that DH caught is only after two weeks in!!!</td></tr></tbody></table><br /><br />I've lost just under 10 lbs in around two weeks, I have zero back or knee pain while completing the program, my body is actually starting to tone <b>already</b>, and I can for sure say that I've been feeding my body a much healthier diet of vegetables, fruits, vegan and soy-free proteins, and a few eggs here and there. <br /><br />The food lifestyle change is facilitated by a simple, easy-to-follow plan. &nbsp;The exercise program is focused on stretch and strength - no bouncing around the room or slamming my knees into the ground. &nbsp;Simple, uncomplicated exercises are the base of the program with a completely amped up take on yoga that lends to a seriously sweaty, sore-in-a-good-way type of workout each day. &nbsp;Thankfully, the program offers modifications for every exercise, so no matter the shape you're in, <b>you can do PiYo</b>. <br /><br /><i>{Seriously. &nbsp;I have another friend who recently had her knee replaced and is doing this program. &nbsp;It's awesome!}</i><br /><i><br /></i>At this point in the game, I have some pretty fantastic goals. &nbsp;I'm realistic that this is not a diet. &nbsp;It is not a fad exercise program. &nbsp;It is not a one-shake-fixes-all sort of a deal. &nbsp;This is a complete change in my day-to-day life. &nbsp;It's going to take a good amount of time, a <b>ton</b>&nbsp;of effort, and a lot of determination. &nbsp;But, for the first time in a long time - I'm there both mentally and physically.<br /><br />Since I've had such fantastic success so far and have realized that <i>PiYo is going to be the program for me</i>&nbsp;to turn my lifestyle back to healthy again, <a href="http://www.beachbodycoach.com/esuite/home/THENAPTOWNMAMA" target="_blank">I have signed on as a BeachBody coach</a>. &nbsp;I'm proud of the changes I'm making both in my eating habits and in my new fitness routine, and want to keep sharing with you all! &nbsp;I'll be continuing to log my journey here on the blog {complete with before/after PiYo photos once I've finished the 8 week program} and hope you all won't mind walking this journey with me! <br /><br /><i>Has anyone else considered doing PiYo? &nbsp;I would love to help you all <a href="http://www.beachbodycoach.com/esuite/home/THENAPTOWNMAMA" target="_blank">start a journey back to good health</a> if this sounds interesting - and would love to have some other ladies complete the program with me!&nbsp;</i><br /><br /><div class="nopin"><img alt="signature photo signature.png" border="0" src="http://i277.photobucket.com/albums/kk53/jhein815/Blog%20Design/signature.png" /><br /><br /><center><a href="https://twitter.com/share" target="_blank"><img alt="tweet this!" border="0" src="http://i277.photobucket.com/albums/kk53/jhein815/Blog%20Design/tweet-2.png" /></a><a href="http://www.facebook.com/TheNaptownOrganizer" target="_blank"><img alt="follow on fb" border="0" src="http://i277.photobucket.com/albums/kk53/jhein815/Blog%20Design/follow-on-facebook.png" /></a><a href="javascript:void((function()%7Bvar%20e=document.createElement('script');e.setAttribute('type','text/javascript');e.setAttribute('charset','UTF-8');e.setAttribute('src','http://assets.pinterest.com/js/pinmarklet.js?r='+Math.random()*99999999);document.body.appendChild(e)%7D)());"><img src="http://i277.photobucket.com/albums/kk53/jhein815/Blog%20Design/pin-2.png" /></a></center><center><div class="pf_ads" id="pf_25600"><script src="http://load.passionfruitads.com/a/804c0b3baeb0bec163a097303aa7151edb63abcd.js" type="text/javascript"></script></div></center></div>the naptown organizerhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/07065433185128079044noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-276425142143445412.post-76627868178998684422014-07-08T23:56:00.001-04:002014-07-08T23:56:47.079-04:00Safety 1st Advance SE 65 Air + Convertible Car Seat Review!<i>*Disclosure - I was provided a car seat for review purposes, but all opinions are honest and my own!</i><br /><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-lxYhT1qkbdk/U7yvSNnymiI/AAAAAAAAEoM/7wOpNzGm9QQ/s1600/car+seat.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-lxYhT1qkbdk/U7yvSNnymiI/AAAAAAAAEoM/7wOpNzGm9QQ/s1600/car+seat.jpg" height="640" width="640" /></a></div>With a quick congrats again to the winner of the <a href="http://www.thenaptownorganizer.com/2014/06/the-ultimate-race-car-protection-for.html" target="_blank">Safety 1st car seat giveaway</a> from a few posts ago, I'd love to take a few minutes today and chat about how we're liking <b>our </b>Safety 1st car seat! &nbsp;When we initially received the car seat, I had been debating which child would be using it. &nbsp;However, about ten seconds after the SE 65 Air + arrived, Little Man claimed it as his own. <br /><br /><i>Shouts of, "It's MY NEW BLUE SEAT!" were likely heard 'round our whole neighborhood.</i><br /><i><br /></i>Let's just say he was smitten.<br /><br />After pulling the seat out of the box, I was also a bit enamored. &nbsp;The SE 65 Air + had all the features I look for in a convertible car seat, including that it can be used in a large weight range {5-65 lbs, with a rear facing range of 5-40 lbs and a forward facing range of 22-65 lbs}. &nbsp;I also <b>LOVE</b>&nbsp;the fact that the harness is a no re-thread harness, which means when your child grows in size, you just pull a lever on the back of the headrest and both the straps and headrest move up - instead of having to take the seat out of the car, take the whole seat apart, and put the straps through different holes. &nbsp;DH also loves that fact, so there isn't any frustrated muttering when the seat needs adjusted every few months.<br /><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-ME4rwDA-vno/U7y7upE4MlI/AAAAAAAAEoc/TUhOY17pyG0/s1600/advance+se+65+air+plus+convertible.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-ME4rwDA-vno/U7y7upE4MlI/AAAAAAAAEoc/TUhOY17pyG0/s1600/advance+se+65+air+plus+convertible.jpg" height="640" width="410" /></a></div><br />{<b>Side note: if you are a soon-to-be parent looking for a car seat, BUY one with the NO RE-THREAD HARNESS, like the <a href="http://safety1st.djgusa.com/en/djgusa/advance-se-65-air--convertible-car-seat---twist-of-citrus-cc114clc" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">SE 65 Air +</a>. &nbsp;You'll thank me for this later.</b>}<br /><br /><i>No, really. &nbsp;Whoever installs the seats in your house will also thank me for the lack of frustrated muttering as well!</i><br /><br />I also love that the seat comes with a cup holder. &nbsp;For whatever reason, some car seat companies make seats without standard cup holders and for the life of me I will never understand why. &nbsp;There is <b>always</b>&nbsp;a toy, removed shoe, baggie of crackers - whatever - in our kids' hands that needs a place to live while in the car. <br /><br />As far as safety goes, Safety 1st does a few pretty special things with the SE 65 Air + seat. &nbsp;Aside from the reinforced steel seat frame, LATCH use ability, and 10 position headrest/4 position recline features, the SE 65 Air + features some fantastic additional safety features that go above and beyond the norm. <br /><br />Safety 1st borrowed ideas from the auto racing industry when creating their Air Protect advanced head cushion system {which protects baby's head side to side during a collision} and their GCell HX patented foam with hexagonal shapes inside the seat to promote superior body safety during a side impact crash. &nbsp;Even though there are currently no regulations on side impact safety testing, the Safety 1st company put features into place to protect your child on their own accord!<br /><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-pjbSo6Pke6g/U7y7wWcWEDI/AAAAAAAAEoo/1x7-ZeES25Y/s1600/side+impact+tested+car+seats.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-pjbSo6Pke6g/U7y7wWcWEDI/AAAAAAAAEoo/1x7-ZeES25Y/s1600/side+impact+tested+car+seats.jpg" height="640" width="426" /></a></div><br />DH did have a little trouble installing the seat, but that was mainly due to our user error and the fact that he installed it with the LATCH system, which I didn't see that until after he'd finished. &nbsp;Due to the new car seat requirements, since Little Man is 40+ lbs, I very gently reminded him that it needed to go in with the seat belt. &nbsp;There was a twidge of frustrated muttering, but the install was <b>very</b>&nbsp;fast!<br /><br />After the seat was installed, Little Man happily climbed on up and in. &nbsp;And fell asleep.<br /><br /><table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-DQbl3ftNcfY/U7ymEJV0ceI/AAAAAAAAEn8/R7RU2i5Czow/s1600/safety+1st+car+seat+review.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-DQbl3ftNcfY/U7ymEJV0ceI/AAAAAAAAEn8/R7RU2i5Czow/s1600/safety+1st+car+seat+review.jpg" height="640" width="480" /></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Clearly a satisfied customer here.</td></tr></tbody></table>It's really nice as well that when Little Man is all slumped down and sleeping, his head is still supported enough that it's not bouncing around as the car moves. <br /><br />Overall, I think it's a great seat that offers the same conveniences as some of the higher priced convertible seats in it's category, yet with a much more reasonable price of $189. &nbsp;We've been using the seat for a few weeks now with only good experiences thus far, and will continue to do so happily!<br /><br />If you're looking for more information, check out the seat at the <a href="http://safety1st.djgusa.com/en/djgusa/advance-se-65-air--convertible-car-seat---twist-of-citrus-cc114clc" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">Safety 1st product site</a> or learn more about the <a href="http://www.thisbuiltamerica.com/indiana/" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">Indiana-local Dorel Group company here</a>!<br /><br /><div class="nopin"><img alt="signature photo signature.png" border="0" src="http://i277.photobucket.com/albums/kk53/jhein815/Blog%20Design/signature.png" /><br /><br /><center><a href="https://twitter.com/share" target="_blank"><img alt="tweet this!" border="0" src="http://i277.photobucket.com/albums/kk53/jhein815/Blog%20Design/tweet-2.png" /></a><a href="http://www.facebook.com/TheNaptownOrganizer" target="_blank"><img alt="follow on fb" border="0" src="http://i277.photobucket.com/albums/kk53/jhein815/Blog%20Design/follow-on-facebook.png" /></a><a href="javascript:void((function()%7Bvar%20e=document.createElement('script');e.setAttribute('type','text/javascript');e.setAttribute('charset','UTF-8');e.setAttribute('src','http://assets.pinterest.com/js/pinmarklet.js?r='+Math.random()*99999999);document.body.appendChild(e)%7D)());"><img src="http://i277.photobucket.com/albums/kk53/jhein815/Blog%20Design/pin-2.png" /></a></center><center><div class="pf_ads" id="pf_25600"><script src="http://load.passionfruitads.com/a/804c0b3baeb0bec163a097303aa7151edb63abcd.js" type="text/javascript"></script></div></center></div>the naptown organizerhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/07065433185128079044noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-276425142143445412.post-65509881083329380562014-07-02T22:52:00.002-04:002014-07-02T22:52:43.446-04:00Early Education Musings - Tot School Edition!I mentioned Little Man's learning style in a previous post, but since it has become pretty <i>blazingly</i>&nbsp;apparent in the past few months, I wanted to chat about it a little more in detail. <br /><br />Ever since he was a baby, Little Man has had the tendency of really hanging back and observing a situation before jumping in. &nbsp;That habit became very clear when we began to take music, sports, swimming, and science classes in recent months. &nbsp;When he does this, he isn't always participating in a group, playing the game that everyone else is, or even really watching what other children/instructors are doing at times. <br /><br />As a parent - <b>I have to tell you</b>&nbsp;- it's a little frustrating. &nbsp;While in some classes {like Kindermusik} he just needed some time to warm up and then he would be having an absolute blast a few minutes later, in some other classes {like soccer or t-ball}, he would observe for a while and then completely disengage from any participation with the activity. <br /><br />I spent a ton of time wondering and thinking about if we were wasting our money sending him to classes, if I should just give up for now, if I should continue paying for some of the classes {like sports-ing, not my favorite either!} that he totally disconnected from. <br /><br />An then I spent a little more time thinking about who Little Man is.<br /><br />After a few internet searches {like <a href="http://www.learning-styles-online.com/overview/" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">here</a> &amp; <a href="http://blc.uc.iupui.edu/AcademicEnrichment/StudySkills/LearningStyles/3LearningStyles.aspx" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">here</a>}, I'm realizing further and further the type of learner that is my beautiful, sweet son. &nbsp;{I've looked a bit for Little Lady as well, but it's still <i>really </i>early for her patterns to imagine just yet!}<br /><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-QfI5_ugTl6I/U7TFC8H4cUI/AAAAAAAAEnY/uODAl-8fo60/s1600/toddlerlearningstyle.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-QfI5_ugTl6I/U7TFC8H4cUI/AAAAAAAAEnY/uODAl-8fo60/s1600/toddlerlearningstyle.jpg" height="640" width="480" /></a></div><br />Above all, Little Man is a verbal/linguistic/auditory learner for sure. <br /><br />No matter what we're doing, he always wants an explanation about it. &nbsp;Little Man goes beyond the toddler curiosity and straight into an interest to really understand each topic and concept we discuss. &nbsp;Instead of throwing himself into activities and learning as he goes, Little Man really delves into the who, what, where, when, how, and why of each tiny point.<br /><br /><i>We basically don't stop speaking the entire day long.</i><br /><i><br /></i>Don't get me wrong, though - it's an awesome thing. &nbsp;It's both awesome in the fact that I'm an incredibly verbal person and can relate easily to his learning style but also because it's already so apparent that this is the way Little Man learns.<br /><br />As a parent who plans to homeschool in the future, my job and my teaching style are already becoming very clear in regards to my child even at the very ripe age of three years old. &nbsp;Obviously, children go through phases and I'll continue to adjust accordingly, but for now this is really working for us. &nbsp;And I am for sure using that knowledge to help facilitate the most beneficial toddler learning as well as seamless toddler living right now!<br /><br /><i>Have you looked into the learning style of your children? &nbsp;How do your children prefer to learn?</i><br /><br /><div class="nopin"><img alt="signature photo signature.png" border="0" src="http://i277.photobucket.com/albums/kk53/jhein815/Blog%20Design/signature.png" /><br /><br /><center><a href="https://twitter.com/share" target="_blank"><img alt="tweet this!" border="0" src="http://i277.photobucket.com/albums/kk53/jhein815/Blog%20Design/tweet-2.png" /></a><a href="http://www.facebook.com/TheNaptownOrganizer" target="_blank"><img alt="follow on fb" border="0" src="http://i277.photobucket.com/albums/kk53/jhein815/Blog%20Design/follow-on-facebook.png" /></a><a href="javascript:void((function()%7Bvar%20e=document.createElement('script');e.setAttribute('type','text/javascript');e.setAttribute('charset','UTF-8');e.setAttribute('src','http://assets.pinterest.com/js/pinmarklet.js?r='+Math.random()*99999999);document.body.appendChild(e)%7D)());"><img src="http://i277.photobucket.com/albums/kk53/jhein815/Blog%20Design/pin-2.png" /></a></center><center><div class="pf_ads" id="pf_25600"><script src="http://load.passionfruitads.com/a/804c0b3baeb0bec163a097303aa7151edb63abcd.js" type="text/javascript"></script></div></center></div>the naptown organizerhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/07065433185128079044noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-276425142143445412.post-3189285547643565762014-06-26T23:54:00.001-04:002014-06-26T23:54:23.622-04:00I'm parenting kids, people. KIDS!On the way home from the park today, I realized something.<br /><br />While for the past three+ years, I've felt like in my mind that I've been parenting my babies, I realized that <b>I am now parenting children.</b><br /><b><br /></b>Somewhere between the museum, the park play dates, the preschool co-op, the pool, and the zoo - it somehow just hit me that my babies aren't babies any more. &nbsp;We're not on a blanket on the floor with a few toys. &nbsp;Instead of being wrapped or worn, both of my little ones are now running, playing, interacting. &nbsp;The days of babies who observe more than participate are over for these two sweet kiddos. <br /><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-GRcQcF4teJo/U6zqrTSEKaI/AAAAAAAAEm4/VetWNPyKRO8/s1600/babies.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-GRcQcF4teJo/U6zqrTSEKaI/AAAAAAAAEm4/VetWNPyKRO8/s1600/babies.jpg" /></a></div><br /><br /><i>{Well, at least for Little Lady. &nbsp;Little Man still loves to sit back for a moment first!}</i><br /><i><br /></i>Today while they were playing with friends, Little Man and Little Lady were both real people, with personalities, real opinions, real voices. &nbsp;They both had preferences of what and where they wanted to play and both found joy in different activities and areas of play. &nbsp;Instead of being these small creatures totally and fully dependent on me for absolutely everything, they're beginning to learn what it feels like to venture slightly out of arm's reach to find answers to their own questions.<br /><br />Of course, they are and will always be <b>MY</b>&nbsp;babies - but it seems like it has happened so fast that they're no longer those squishy, newborn-smelling, puddles of love in my arms. &nbsp;For Little Man, he was only 13 months when I became pregnant with Little Lady. &nbsp;He was still so much of a baby when I began preparing and planning for Little Lady's arrival that I think it was just seamless in my eyes to envision them both as my babies together.<br /><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-5CMduR3215Q/U6zq0m2PomI/AAAAAAAAEnA/rSSYBq9iuiw/s1600/kids.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-5CMduR3215Q/U6zq0m2PomI/AAAAAAAAEnA/rSSYBq9iuiw/s1600/kids.jpg" height="400" width="640" /></a></div><br /><br />But now children, they are.<br /><br />After the car ride home, the naps, the dinner, and the bath time - everyone received a few extra snuggles tonight, and maybe a few happy tears as well!<br /><br /><div class="nopin"><img alt="signature photo signature.png" border="0" src="http://i277.photobucket.com/albums/kk53/jhein815/Blog%20Design/signature.png" /><br /><br /><center><a href="https://twitter.com/share" target="_blank"><img alt="tweet this!" border="0" src="http://i277.photobucket.com/albums/kk53/jhein815/Blog%20Design/tweet-2.png" /></a><a href="http://www.facebook.com/TheNaptownOrganizer" target="_blank"><img alt="follow on fb" border="0" src="http://i277.photobucket.com/albums/kk53/jhein815/Blog%20Design/follow-on-facebook.png" /></a><a href="javascript:void((function()%7Bvar%20e=document.createElement('script');e.setAttribute('type','text/javascript');e.setAttribute('charset','UTF-8');e.setAttribute('src','http://assets.pinterest.com/js/pinmarklet.js?r='+Math.random()*99999999);document.body.appendChild(e)%7D)());"><img src="http://i277.photobucket.com/albums/kk53/jhein815/Blog%20Design/pin-2.png" /></a></center><center><div class="pf_ads" id="pf_25600"><script src="http://load.passionfruitads.com/a/804c0b3baeb0bec163a097303aa7151edb63abcd.js" type="text/javascript"></script></div></center></div>the naptown organizerhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/07065433185128079044noreply@blogger.com3tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-276425142143445412.post-35599557077545062452014-06-20T05:00:00.000-04:002014-06-20T05:00:01.093-04:00Musical Beginnings Kindermusik Class Review & Giveaway! {Local to Indianapolis!}<i>* Disclosure - I was provided classes free of charge to facilitate this review, but opinions are 100% honest and my own!</i><br /><i><br /></i> Now that Little Man &amp; Little Lady are both out of the teeny baby stage and into the {sob} toddler and child stage, we've been trying out a few classes for the kids. &nbsp;One of our favorites has definitely been the <a href="http://www.musicalbeginnings.com/" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">Kindermusik class</a> in our area!<br /><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-A9WhumGf424/U4AU0fbc1QI/AAAAAAAAEjk/VAQZH249tS4/s1600/km1.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-A9WhumGf424/U4AU0fbc1QI/AAAAAAAAEjk/VAQZH249tS4/s1600/km1.jpg" height="410" width="640" /></a></div><br /><br />If you haven't heard of Kindermusik previously, it's a music class for children from birth to age 7 that focuses not only on music - but on the child's development as a whole. &nbsp;<a href="http://www.musicalbeginnings.com/" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">Kindermusik</a> has actually done research on their curriculum that showed significantly greater language and literacy gains in children who had taken their music classes as compared to a control group who had not! &nbsp;Here are a few areas that Kindermusik addresses:<br /><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-VwgyKz68JVY/U4AUZzMsFAI/AAAAAAAAEjc/sB7giAF7nqk/s1600/BenefitsOfKindermusik_KidsMusicClassesForAllAges_Infographic.png" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-VwgyKz68JVY/U4AUZzMsFAI/AAAAAAAAEjc/sB7giAF7nqk/s1600/BenefitsOfKindermusik_KidsMusicClassesForAllAges_Infographic.png" height="640" width="425" /></a></div><br />When we were given the opportunity to take the kids to our local Kindermusik classes, DH &amp; I jumped on the excellent opportunity! &nbsp;<a href="http://www.musicalbeginnings.com/about.html" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">Ms. Kim</a>, the musical director and owner of the north side Indianapolis and northern Indianapolis suburb offerings of Kindermusik, is a lovely lady who {among her other instructors} is absolutely perfect to the kids. &nbsp;Not only is she sweet and nurturing to all of the children in her classes, but {as both a mother and grandmother} she understands fully that children learn, participate, and process in their own ways - and she tries to help each child get the best out of her classes by learning a bit of who they each are as little people.<br /><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-J08Cme2lYIk/U4AXyYibZWI/AAAAAAAAEkk/L30edZNZCkY/s1600/km5.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-J08Cme2lYIk/U4AXyYibZWI/AAAAAAAAEkk/L30edZNZCkY/s1600/km5.jpg" height="640" width="310" /></a></div><br />During our first class, I was so overwhelmingly impressed with the overriding theme of music and fun for the kids interlaced with the underlying slightly stealthy educational offering. &nbsp;Through song and music {as well as reading activities}, Ms. Kim was not only helping the children to sing and dance but also touched on topics such as colors, shapes, directions {up and down, left and right}, and concepts {such as slow vs. fast, on vs. next to, etc.}. &nbsp;Throughout the whole class, Ms. Kim was fantastically engaging while teaching the children. &nbsp;I've never seen so many toddlers sit still at one time!<br /><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-r2zZ_-7VT1U/U4AXrPMZxwI/AAAAAAAAEjw/8p0ipmNbCIk/s1600/km4.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-r2zZ_-7VT1U/U4AXrPMZxwI/AAAAAAAAEjw/8p0ipmNbCIk/s1600/km4.jpg" height="390" width="640" /></a></div><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br />In any one of the Kindermusik classes we attended, my kids were singing, playing musical instruments, listening to sounds and identifying what they were, playing with scarves, playing with hula hoops, rolling and playing with balls, listening to stories, as well as many other activities. &nbsp;It's honestly the best class we've ever been to that combines musical experiences, language, fine motor skills, gross motor skills, and just knowledge and the acquisition of new vocabulary and concepts in general.<br /><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-Tzbsf-wySe4/U4AXv_BbKNI/AAAAAAAAEkE/6ODc-ePnIfc/s1600/IMG_5763.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-Tzbsf-wySe4/U4AXv_BbKNI/AAAAAAAAEkE/6ODc-ePnIfc/s1600/IMG_5763.jpg" height="640" width="426" /></a></div><br />One of the best parts of the Kindermusik classes in my opinion is the variety. &nbsp;Instead of just going to a catch-all sort of music class elsewhere, with Kindermusik you have options. &nbsp;During both the typical school year as well as the summer, Ms. Kim offers <a href="http://www.musicalbeginnings.com/about.html#" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">around&nbsp;<b>seven</b>&nbsp;different classes</a> for your child, depending on their age and interests. <br /><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-NKNaxNA5jFQ/U4AXwExWXVI/AAAAAAAAEkM/pV0IjYQiqhs/s1600/km3.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-NKNaxNA5jFQ/U4AXwExWXVI/AAAAAAAAEkM/pV0IjYQiqhs/s1600/km3.jpg" height="400" width="393" /></a></div><br />While there are certainly classes made for your child's specific age, one of the class offerings I loved the most was that there are also "family classes" where children of ages 6 months up to 6-7 years are all able to sing, interact, and learn in the same class - so you are able to take all of your children for <b>a single class in one place</b>.<br /><br /><i>Can I get an amen, activity-frantic mamas?</i><br /><i><br /></i> <br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-HoJxDksSDIk/U4AXxcEtzUI/AAAAAAAAEkc/wdRDKAquIuU/s1600/km7.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-HoJxDksSDIk/U4AXxcEtzUI/AAAAAAAAEkc/wdRDKAquIuU/s1600/km7.jpg" height="640" width="410" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div>If this sounds fabulous to you, and you're a local Indianapolis-area parent - well, then do I have some great news for you! &nbsp;For any new students, with the code KM2014 you will receive a 10% discount on the first month's fees! &nbsp;Also, because Ms. Kim is awesome and wants to share the musical love with my readers, we're giving away THREE $25 coupons to <a href="http://www.musicalbeginnings.com/index.html" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">Musical Beginnings Kindermusik</a>! <br /><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-75ppLsTARuk/U4AXxSlkfPI/AAAAAAAAEkY/UiZ9ovTUFxI/s1600/km6.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-75ppLsTARuk/U4AXxSlkfPI/AAAAAAAAEkY/UiZ9ovTUFxI/s1600/km6.jpg" height="640" width="410" /></a></div><br />{Again, this is a <b>LOCAL</b>&nbsp;giveaway only - so please only enter if you are in the Indianapolis area or know someone local you'd give your winnings to!}<br /><br />Get to entering the giveaway widget and let me know if you have any questions!!!<br /><br /><a class="rafl" href="http://www.rafflecopter.com/rafl/display/33e3e041/" id="rc-33e3e041" rel="nofollow">a Rafflecopter giveaway</a><br /><script src="//widget.rafflecopter.com/load.js"></script><br /><br /><div class="nopin"><img alt="signature photo signature.png" border="0" src="http://i277.photobucket.com/albums/kk53/jhein815/Blog%20Design/signature.png" /><br /><br /><center><a href="https://twitter.com/share" target="_blank"><img alt="tweet this!" border="0" src="http://i277.photobucket.com/albums/kk53/jhein815/Blog%20Design/tweet-2.png" /></a><a href="http://www.facebook.com/TheNaptownOrganizer" target="_blank"><img alt="follow on fb" border="0" src="http://i277.photobucket.com/albums/kk53/jhein815/Blog%20Design/follow-on-facebook.png" /></a><a href="javascript:void((function()%7Bvar%20e=document.createElement('script');e.setAttribute('type','text/javascript');e.setAttribute('charset','UTF-8');e.setAttribute('src','http://assets.pinterest.com/js/pinmarklet.js?r='+Math.random()*99999999);document.body.appendChild(e)%7D)());"><img src="http://i277.photobucket.com/albums/kk53/jhein815/Blog%20Design/pin-2.png" /></a></center><center><div class="pf_ads" id="pf_25600"><script src="http://load.passionfruitads.com/a/804c0b3baeb0bec163a097303aa7151edb63abcd.js" type="text/javascript"></script></div></center></div>the naptown organizerhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/07065433185128079044noreply@blogger.com4tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-276425142143445412.post-27077951687907097672014-06-18T20:16:00.000-04:002014-06-18T20:16:52.720-04:00Playdate Preparation? No biggie!Recently, as I mentioned in <a href="http://www.thenaptownorganizer.com/2014/06/summer-days-driftin-away.html" target="_blank">one of my last posts</a>, we've been a little busy. &nbsp;We've had a lot of park dates, play dates, trips out, classes, loads of seriously fun stuff for the kids. &nbsp;Prepping for those play dates at <i>our</i>&nbsp;home, however? &nbsp;Goes a little something like this:<br /><br /><i>Stay up until midnight the night before cleaning.</i><br /><i><br /></i><i>Set alarm for a half hour before kids usually get up so that you can get ready.</i><br /><i><br /></i><i>The next morning, toddler comes into your room 5 minutes before that alarm is supposed to go off.</i><br /><i><br /></i><i>Set up toddler with cartoon, proceed to get ready.</i><br /><i><br /></i><i>Brush teeth, possibly put on deodorant, get half-dressed before baby wakes. &nbsp;</i><br /><i><br /></i><i>Forgo make-up or brushing hair in order to finish putting on clothes and get baby up.</i><br /><i><br /></i><i>Nurse baby while toddler continues to watch cartoon while also siting on your lap.</i><br /><i><br /></i><i>Change diapers and put children in day clothes. &nbsp;</i><br /><i><br /></i><i>Attempt to make breakfast.</i><br /><i><br /></i><i>After breakfast is made, toddler requests something different.</i><br /><i><br /></i><i>Make second breakfast.</i><br /><i><br /></i><i>Clean first breakfast off the floor from baby. &nbsp;</i><br /><i><br /></i><i>Change baby's clothes again, since she ripped off her bib and smashed her food into her shirt.</i><br /><i><br /></i><i>And hair.</i><br /><i><br /></i><i>Clean up kitchen again while baby pulls out toys in living room and toddler eats second breakfast.</i><br /><i><br /></i><i>Feed dog.</i><br /><i><br /></i><i>Pour yourself cup of tea/coffee/water.</i><br /><i><br /></i><i>Drink one drink before dog pees on floor because you forgot to let her out.</i><br /><i><br /></i><i>Clean dog pee, which luckily was only on the tile and not the carpet. &nbsp;</i><br /><i><br /></i><i>Take toddler to the bathroom.</i><br /><i><br /></i><i>Spend next 5 minutes cleaning toilet again because toddler peed everywhere, even though you just cleaned it last night.</i><br /><i><br /></i><i>Have one more drink. &nbsp;</i><br /><i><br /></i><i>Run leftover bucket of laundry into your room, close door.</i><br /><i><br /></i><i>Proceed to clean living room again from all the toys pulled out. &nbsp;</i><br /><i><br /></i><i>Take one bite of a banana.</i><br /><i><br /></i><i>Doorbell rings.</i><br /><i><br /></i>Does this sound similar to anyone else?<br /><br />Thankfully, though, the end result of baby smiles is always totally worth the craziness that occurs just before. <br /><br /><div class="nopin"><img alt="signature photo signature.png" border="0" src="http://i277.photobucket.com/albums/kk53/jhein815/Blog%20Design/signature.png" /><br /><br /><center><a href="https://twitter.com/share" target="_blank"><img alt="tweet this!" border="0" src="http://i277.photobucket.com/albums/kk53/jhein815/Blog%20Design/tweet-2.png" /></a><a href="http://www.facebook.com/TheNaptownOrganizer" target="_blank"><img alt="follow on fb" border="0" src="http://i277.photobucket.com/albums/kk53/jhein815/Blog%20Design/follow-on-facebook.png" /></a><a href="javascript:void((function()%7Bvar%20e=document.createElement('script');e.setAttribute('type','text/javascript');e.setAttribute('charset','UTF-8');e.setAttribute('src','http://assets.pinterest.com/js/pinmarklet.js?r='+Math.random()*99999999);document.body.appendChild(e)%7D)());"><img src="http://i277.photobucket.com/albums/kk53/jhein815/Blog%20Design/pin-2.png" /></a></center><center><div class="pf_ads" id="pf_25600"><script src="http://load.passionfruitads.com/a/804c0b3baeb0bec163a097303aa7151edb63abcd.js" type="text/javascript"></script></div></center></div>the naptown organizerhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/07065433185128079044noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-276425142143445412.post-44230666675683537912014-06-14T20:44:00.000-04:002014-06-14T22:30:56.091-04:00The Ultimate Race Car Protection for Your Child : Safety 1st Car Seat Giveaway!<i>* Disclosure - I was provided product in exchange for this sponsored post. &nbsp;All thoughts are my own.</i><br /><br />As Father's Day approaches this year, I've been thinking quite a bit about how we will spend our day celebrating DH and the many, many things he has done for our children over the past 365 days. &nbsp;Since DH absolutely <b>loves</b>&nbsp;any and everything sports related, we may just head out to a baseball game or a car race in our fantastic city of Indianapolis.<br /><br />Because of his passion for sports, DH started his career {in his first job out of college} in auto racing. &nbsp;He had a - quite frankly - really cool job for a company that designed and built telemetry systems for race cars. &nbsp;If you're not familiar with that terminology, it basically means that he helped race car drivers and their teams understand what each small part or machine on their vehicle was doing at all times - to massively improve not only their success in any given race, but ultimately also the driver's safety.<br /><br />So, needless to say, safety is also paramount in the way DH &amp; I zoom our children around town as well! <br /><br />And, while some baby product companies are being left behind in the dust, Safety 1st {and their mother company, the Dorel Juvenile Group} are speeding ahead of the pack - by incorporating the same technology into car seats used by race car drivers.<br /><br /><table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-56jEDCGhmvM/U5zlGlr1z8I/AAAAAAAAEmU/9Z2-SoUeDvw/s1600/CC114CKJ-FS.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-56jEDCGhmvM/U5zlGlr1z8I/AAAAAAAAEmU/9Z2-SoUeDvw/s1600/CC114CKJ-FS.jpg" /></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Advance SE 65 Air + Convertible&nbsp;</td></tr></tbody></table><br />See, because the Dorel Juvenile Group builds it's car seats in Columbus, IN {just about an hour south of us, and also the town where DH held his second job out of college!}, they've been able to work with some of the same companies and utilize the same advances in products and technology as the customized cockpits a race car driver in the IndyCar circuit may use. <br /><br /><i>{A company that still produces their line of car seats, and other items, in the U.S., only a short hour from where we live? &nbsp;Fantastic.}</i><br /><i><br /></i> A leader in safety innovation, the patented technology being used by the Safety 1st brand is called GCell HX, and combined with <a href="http://safety1st.djgusa.com/en/djgusa/safety1st/infant-car-seats/onboard%E2%84%A235-air-infant-car-seat---twist-of-citrus-ic168clc" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">Safety 1st Air Protect Technology</a>, provides full body safety protection in the event of the crash. &nbsp;GCell HX is a patented foam inspired by racing cars designed in a hexagonal shape for superior torso protection. &nbsp;Even though the US doesn't currently have side impact standards for car seats, the Dorel Juvenile Group has outfitted these car seats with two air filled pockets (the Air Protect technology) located on the sides of baby's head to cushion baby should there be a side impact collision.<br /><br /><table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-NxAKBSnFX08/U5zlGVAVKqI/AAAAAAAAEmQ/ZzJLIF3YLCE/s1600/IC168CLC-FS.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-NxAKBSnFX08/U5zlGVAVKqI/AAAAAAAAEmQ/ZzJLIF3YLCE/s1600/IC168CLC-FS.jpg" /></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">onBoard 35 Air + Infant Car Seat</td></tr></tbody></table><br />I'll be hosting a review of a Safety 1st car seat upcoming, but in the meantime, you &amp; your sports loving partners can check out some <b>fantastic</b>&nbsp;information about the Safety 1st line of car seats for our little racers <a href="http://www.thisbuiltamerica.com/indiana/" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">here on AOL's Indiana company spotlight</a>! <br /><br />And even better? <br /><br />You can enter here to WIN your choice of either the onBoard 35 Air + Infant or Advance SE Convertible car seat from Safety 1st and the Dorel Group, get to entering below!!! &nbsp;<i>(Note this is open to the US only)</i><br /><br /><b>Happy Father's Day!!!!!</b><br /><b><br /><br /><a class="rafl" href="http://www.rafflecopter.com/rafl/display/33e3e039/" id="rc-33e3e039" rel="nofollow">a Rafflecopter giveaway</a><br /><script src="//widget.rafflecopter.com/load.js"></script><br /></b> <b><br /></b> <br /><div class="nopin"><img alt="signature photo signature.png" border="0" src="http://i277.photobucket.com/albums/kk53/jhein815/Blog%20Design/signature.png" /><br /><br /><center><a href="https://twitter.com/share" target="_blank"><img alt="tweet this!" border="0" src="http://i277.photobucket.com/albums/kk53/jhein815/Blog%20Design/tweet-2.png" /></a><a href="http://www.facebook.com/TheNaptownOrganizer" target="_blank"><img alt="follow on fb" border="0" src="http://i277.photobucket.com/albums/kk53/jhein815/Blog%20Design/follow-on-facebook.png" /></a><a href="javascript:void((function()%7Bvar%20e=document.createElement('script');e.setAttribute('type','text/javascript');e.setAttribute('charset','UTF-8');e.setAttribute('src','http://assets.pinterest.com/js/pinmarklet.js?r='+Math.random()*99999999);document.body.appendChild(e)%7D)());"><img src="http://i277.photobucket.com/albums/kk53/jhein815/Blog%20Design/pin-2.png" /></a></center><center><div class="pf_ads" id="pf_25600"><script src="http://load.passionfruitads.com/a/804c0b3baeb0bec163a097303aa7151edb63abcd.js" type="text/javascript"></script></div></center></div>the naptown organizerhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/07065433185128079044noreply@blogger.com27tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-276425142143445412.post-25845273435294327642014-06-12T01:30:00.001-04:002014-06-12T01:30:14.742-04:00Summer days, driftin' away...The past few weeks, I've kind of allowed myself to be swept away by summer a little bit. <br />The warm weather, the walking paths, the play dates, the new things we've had going on around our home. <br /><br />I feel like it's really easy this time of year to want to just step away from the computer and the inside for a little bit and focus on spending every waking moment soaking in the sun and the soft breezes. &nbsp;<i>Especially</i>&nbsp;after the winter we just had! <br /><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-2SsDTnmDTr0/U5k4SAAMWRI/AAAAAAAAEls/yXgS2fT9tVQ/s1600/summer+1.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-2SsDTnmDTr0/U5k4SAAMWRI/AAAAAAAAEls/yXgS2fT9tVQ/s1600/summer+1.jpg" height="480" width="640" /></a></div><br /><br />The kids have been growing like weeds as well. <br /><br />I feel like I just randomly looked at Little Man today and he's turning into this tall, slim little boy compared to the teeny squishy baby with the rolls that I once knew. &nbsp;Each day he has more questions about really significant topics. &nbsp;One explanation is never enough, there are always at least four sub-questions to each topic still, but it's so fantastically amazing how much he is learning and how quickly he is learning it. &nbsp;Each day, I'm really learning over and over that Little Man benefits the most and prefers to learn the best when he is given not opportunities to do - but really explanations of why for each and every point through the day. &nbsp;I'm still trying to give him opportunities to interact and learn with and from his environment, but it really is the second best option when it comes to how his brain works. &nbsp;It's fairly obvious his thought processes are so similar to DH and my dad in their engineering ways - Little Man has to research how it works before he jumps in to try it!<br /><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"></div><table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-dt2qU5R-shA/U5k4SFRN21I/AAAAAAAAEl8/3dzXC1KfIXY/s1600/summer+3.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-dt2qU5R-shA/U5k4SFRN21I/AAAAAAAAEl8/3dzXC1KfIXY/s1600/summer+3.jpg" height="640" width="474" /></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">One of the few activities that never needs an explanation - washing his ride!</td></tr></tbody></table>Little Lady has <b>really</b>&nbsp;hit the big, looming, pre-two-year-old language boom. &nbsp;She has gone from around 20 words at her last check up to probably 40-50 words now, and gains more words each day. &nbsp;Some of the words she recently learned being owl, swing, I love you {swoon}, rock, nursies, and many more. &nbsp;She is so in that fun stage where, when repeated enough, every isolated word has a chance of being repeated back by her teeny little mouth. &nbsp;With this new boom of language though, Little Lady has very much realized she cannot express all her needs and also has the new-found joy of the exceedingly dramatic, throw yourself on the floor, flail a little bit, and then look up to see if it worked tantrum. &nbsp;I remember Little Man went through something very similar for a while, and I will be so relieved when she's able to express herself enough that she doesn't need the frustrated slumping on the ground! &nbsp;For now, if you see us out around town and I'm carrying a wailing, flailing darling - don't mind us a bit!<br /><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-eX56sqzgTEE/U5k4RmWTQVI/AAAAAAAAElw/ithPqoNlYkw/s1600/smmer+2.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-eX56sqzgTEE/U5k4RmWTQVI/AAAAAAAAElw/ithPqoNlYkw/s1600/smmer+2.jpg" height="640" width="474" /></a></div><br />Both of the kids have been showing me the most adorable snippets of love these past few weeks as well, though. &nbsp;As I mentioned, Little Lady recently learned to say "I love you." &nbsp;Typically, she had only been saying it right before bedtime when I said it to her, but recently Little Lady also said it just randomly after I gave her some grapes with her dinner. &nbsp;<i>Be still, my heart.</i>&nbsp; She additionally has found comfort through some of her frustrations or upsets in being held so close to me, with her arms squeezing around my neck and back, her face buried into my shoulder. &nbsp;She is a fierce hugger, and it's absolutely lovely.<br /><br />Little Man has been having some difficulty getting himself to sleep the past week or so, but I honestly almost don't mind. &nbsp;Each night, he'll come out of his room and call for us {which we've been encouraging him to do} to use the bathroom an hour or so after we put him in bed. &nbsp;Once he's finished and put back together for bed though, he doesn't want to go back to sleep. &nbsp;Some nights I am pretty tired by that point, but other nights I'm just soaking in the extra snuggles, one {or three} more stories, looking out his window and talking about how astronauts reach the big, round moon, or just how he wants to lay quietly together in his bed - reaching out his hand every few minutes to rest on my cheek to make sure I'm still there. <br /><br />If this is the start to our summer, I think it's going to be a fantastic season of our lives.<br /><br /><div class="nopin"><img alt="signature photo signature.png" border="0" src="http://i277.photobucket.com/albums/kk53/jhein815/Blog%20Design/signature.png" /><br /><br /><center><a href="https://twitter.com/share" target="_blank"><img alt="tweet this!" border="0" src="http://i277.photobucket.com/albums/kk53/jhein815/Blog%20Design/tweet-2.png" /></a><a href="http://www.facebook.com/TheNaptownOrganizer" target="_blank"><img alt="follow on fb" border="0" src="http://i277.photobucket.com/albums/kk53/jhein815/Blog%20Design/follow-on-facebook.png" /></a><a href="javascript:void((function()%7Bvar%20e=document.createElement('script');e.setAttribute('type','text/javascript');e.setAttribute('charset','UTF-8');e.setAttribute('src','http://assets.pinterest.com/js/pinmarklet.js?r='+Math.random()*99999999);document.body.appendChild(e)%7D)());"><img src="http://i277.photobucket.com/albums/kk53/jhein815/Blog%20Design/pin-2.png" /></a></center><center><div class="pf_ads" id="pf_25600"><script src="http://load.passionfruitads.com/a/804c0b3baeb0bec163a097303aa7151edb63abcd.js" type="text/javascript"></script></div></center></div>the naptown organizerhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/07065433185128079044noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-276425142143445412.post-74805452780267415562014-05-18T00:40:00.002-04:002014-05-18T00:40:18.201-04:00Catch the Moment 365 - Days 127 through 133So I have a new goal for myself.<br /><br />I may not get my post out exactly every Friday, but I for sure want to keep getting a CTM post out every week. &nbsp;I don't know why, but actually getting out a post on Fridays has been a little tough lately - even though I am <b>finally</b>&nbsp;starting to feel better again. <br /><br />This week was full of a ton of cute. &nbsp;I swear, I know I'm biased - but I just get overwhelmed every day with the amount of cute babies that are in my life all day long every day.<br /><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-4LBdS6vD_1I/U3g2GWgy0DI/AAAAAAAAEig/IIAIVDMZdEg/s1600/ctm127.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-4LBdS6vD_1I/U3g2GWgy0DI/AAAAAAAAEig/IIAIVDMZdEg/s1600/ctm127.jpg" height="640" width="440" /></a></div><br />127/365: Since <a href="http://www.themaidenmetallurgist.com/" target="_blank">my friend Drea</a>&nbsp;sent me a new shorty wrap this week, I've been practicing lots of new and different carries. &nbsp;The problem is, whenever I wrap one of the babies, the other immediately wants up. &nbsp;So, we've also been getting a <b>ton</b>&nbsp;of use out of my Pavo Holly Etini 7 and I've been getting a bunch of lovely tandem snuggles!<br /><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-RcV-xtYuaAw/U3g2FffRchI/AAAAAAAAEiU/d7ZDAQjfvL0/s1600/ctm128.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-RcV-xtYuaAw/U3g2FffRchI/AAAAAAAAEiU/d7ZDAQjfvL0/s1600/ctm128.jpg" height="640" width="410" /></a></div><br />128/365: This week, paint has been a huge joy for the kids and we've been doing a ton of fingerpainting and brush painting! &nbsp;Mostly though, Little Lady's paint ends up on her face, lol.<br /><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-EpR1fbnnp98/U3g2FWPaXNI/AAAAAAAAEiQ/F3K17FMsVEQ/s1600/ctm129.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-EpR1fbnnp98/U3g2FWPaXNI/AAAAAAAAEiQ/F3K17FMsVEQ/s1600/ctm129.jpg" height="410" width="640" /></a></div><br />129/365: The beautiful flowers DH and the kids gave me for Mother's Day are still going strong even to this day - a full week later. &nbsp;This was a photo I snapped earlier in the week of how pretty the flowers looked.<br /><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-u2UXKR78VOQ/U3g2GlCcx1I/AAAAAAAAEio/YRCWWFpg7F4/s1600/ctm130.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-u2UXKR78VOQ/U3g2GlCcx1I/AAAAAAAAEio/YRCWWFpg7F4/s1600/ctm130.jpg" height="410" width="640" /></a></div><br />130/365: Our landscaping was re-done this week as well - which was fantastic for the kids. &nbsp;We literally played in the office all day long and the kids had chairs set up in front of the windows to watch the landscapers do their work. &nbsp;I'm glad we finally have some lovely {and low maintenance} plants in that should fill in quite nicely within the next 2-3 years.<br /><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-xAmMnkAblNA/U3g2GwsKmVI/AAAAAAAAEik/sOrVM5htiNc/s1600/ctm131.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-xAmMnkAblNA/U3g2GwsKmVI/AAAAAAAAEik/sOrVM5htiNc/s1600/ctm131.jpg" height="410" width="640" /></a></div><br />131/365: Little Man's soccer practice barely still happened between the weather on this day - and he was only interested in playing soccer for about 10 minutes before he was off searching for birds and bugs, hah!<br /><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-RtGfk1mVAs4/U3g2HTA9e6I/AAAAAAAAEi8/X-Ffen7kWM8/s1600/ctm132.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-RtGfk1mVAs4/U3g2HTA9e6I/AAAAAAAAEi8/X-Ffen7kWM8/s1600/ctm132.jpg" height="640" width="480" /></a></div><br />132/365: This sweet boy and his huge smiles.<br /><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-kBW3bxh-2pw/U3g2HzhCvzI/AAAAAAAAEi4/pFUOq6pz8u0/s1600/ctm133.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-kBW3bxh-2pw/U3g2HzhCvzI/AAAAAAAAEi4/pFUOq6pz8u0/s1600/ctm133.jpg" height="640" width="480" /></a></div><br />133/365: And this girl and her teeny little smile with her big old bow. &nbsp;I don't even care how goofy I look!<br /><br /><div style="text-align: justify;"><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://www.nurselovesfarmer.com/" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;" target="_blank" title="Nurse Loves Farmer"><img alt="Nurse Loves Farmer" src="http://farm3.staticflickr.com/2815/11669640196_8b5a93ed44_m.jpg" style="border: none;" /></a></div></div><div style="text-align: justify;"><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"></div><br /><div class="nopin"><img alt="signature photo signature.png" border="0" src="http://i277.photobucket.com/albums/kk53/jhein815/Blog%20Design/signature.png" /><br /><br /><center><a href="https://twitter.com/share" target="_blank"><img alt="tweet this!" border="0" src="http://i277.photobucket.com/albums/kk53/jhein815/Blog%20Design/tweet-2.png" /></a><a href="http://www.facebook.com/TheNaptownOrganizer" target="_blank"><img alt="follow on fb" border="0" src="http://i277.photobucket.com/albums/kk53/jhein815/Blog%20Design/follow-on-facebook.png" /></a><a href="javascript:void((function()%7Bvar%20e=document.createElement('script');e.setAttribute('type','text/javascript');e.setAttribute('charset','UTF-8');e.setAttribute('src','http://assets.pinterest.com/js/pinmarklet.js?r='+Math.random()*99999999);document.body.appendChild(e)%7D)());"><img src="http://i277.photobucket.com/albums/kk53/jhein815/Blog%20Design/pin-2.png" /></a></center><center><div class="pf_ads" id="pf_25600"><script src="http://load.passionfruitads.com/a/804c0b3baeb0bec163a097303aa7151edb63abcd.js" type="text/javascript"></script></div></center></div></div>the naptown organizerhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/07065433185128079044noreply@blogger.com6tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-276425142143445412.post-72293527741329190852014-05-14T17:00:00.000-04:002014-05-14T17:00:00.815-04:00Moonlight & Mason Jars Link Up!<div style="text-align: center;"><div style="text-align: left;">Hey all! &nbsp;This week I'm shaking things up a bit and guest hosting a link up party! &nbsp;The Moonlight &amp; Mason Jars Link Party is one that has featured my posts previously and one I check out for new ideas myself. &nbsp;Check out the awesome posts and the link up below!</div><div style="text-align: left;"><br /></div><br /><img alt="Moonlight and Mason Jars Link Party Button" class="size-full wp-image-3987 aligncenter" src="http://www.thenewlywedpilgrimage.com/wp-content/uploads/2013/09/MMJ-Button.jpg" height="250" width="250" /></div>Welcome to the <strong>Moonlight &amp; Mason Jars Link Up Party #55</strong>, hosted by myself, Heather, Jennifer, Ashley &amp; Samantha. We're glad to have you here!<br /><br /><em>Don't forget that we have ONE new guest host each week. If you're a blogger and are interested in participating, please send a message on <a href="https://www.facebook.com/MamaDishBlog">Facebook</a>. We average more than 200 link-ups per week, so that is great exposure for your blog. Don't miss out!</em><br /><em><br /></em><h3 style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://www.blogger.com/www.moonlightandmasonjars.com" target="_blank" title="Moonlight and Mason Jars"><img alt="MMJ Hosts Image" class="aligncenter" src="http://www.thenewlywedpilgrimage.com/wp-content/uploads/2013/11/MMJ-Hosts-Image.jpg" height="400" width="550" /></a></h3><h2 style="text-align: center;">Welcome Jayne from <a href="http://www.thenaptownorganizer.com/" target="_blank">The Naptown Organizer</a></h2><div style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://www.thenaptownorganizer.com/2014/01/secondhand-sunday-7-kitchen-table-chairs.html" target="_blank"><img alt="MMJWk55_GuestCollage" class="aligncenter size-full wp-image-5426" src="http://www.mamadish.com/wp-content/uploads/2014/05/MMJWk55_GuestCollage.jpg" height="221" width="640" /></a></div><div style="text-align: center;"></div><a name='more'></a><br /><a href="http://www.mamadish.com/wp-content/uploads/2013/11/MMJlinkbanner1.jpg"><img alt="M&amp;MJlinkbanner" class="aligncenter size-full wp-image-4976" src="http://www.mamadish.com/wp-content/uploads/2013/11/MMJlinkbanner1.jpg" height="50" width="550" /></a><br /><div style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://www.mamadish.com/" target="_blank">Mama Dish</a> // <a href="http://www.pinterest.com/mamadishblog/" target="_blank">Pinterest</a> // <a href="https://twitter.com/hleatherton" target="_blank">Twitter</a> // <a href="https://plus.google.com/u/0/+HeatherEatherton/posts" target="_blank">Google+</a> // <a href="http://www.bloglovin.com/blog/4609679/wwwmamadishcom" target="_blank">Bloglovin'</a> // <a href="http://www.facebook.com/mamadishblog" target="_blank">Facebook</a></div><div style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://www.thenewlywedpilgrimage.com/" target="_blank">The Newlywed Pilgrimage</a> // <a href="http://www.pinterest.com/jenniferpilgrim" target="_blank">Pinterest</a> // <a href="https://plus.google.com/105889000057601138059/posts" target="_blank">Google+</a> // <a href="http://www.bloglovin.com/en/blog/3981193" target="_blank">Bloglovin'</a> // <a href="http://www.facebook.com/thenewlywedpilgrimage" target="_blank">Facebook</a></div><div style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://cherishedbliss.com/" target="_blank">Cherished Bliss</a> // <a href="http://www.pinterest.com/cherishedbliss" target="_blank">Pinterest</a> // <a href="https://plus.google.com/108864917222482489030/posts" target="_blank">Google+</a> // <a href="http://www.bloglovin.com/en/blog/3078864" target="_blank">Bloglovin'</a> // <a href="http://www.facebook.com/CherishedBliss" target="_blank">Facebook</a></div><div style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://fivehearthome.com/" target="_blank">Five Heart Home</a> // <a href="http://www.pinterest.com/fivehearthome/" target="_blank">Pinterest</a> // <a href="http://www.bloglovin.com/en/blog/8819929" target="_blank">Bloglovin'</a> // <a href="https://plus.google.com/110468053782559460612/posts" target="_blank">Google+</a> // <a href="https://www.facebook.com/FiveHeartHome" target="_blank">Facebook</a> // <a href="https://twitter.com/FiveHeartHome" target="_blank">Twitter</a></div><div style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://www.thenaptownorganizer.com/" target="_blank">The Naptown Organizer</a>// <a href="http://www.pinterest.com/thenaptownmama/" target="_blank">Pinterest</a> // <a href="http://instagram.com/thenaptownorganizer" target="_blank">Instagram </a>// <a href="https://www.facebook.com/TheNaptownOrganizer" target="_blank">Facebook</a> // <a href="https://twitter.com/TheNaptownMama" target="_blank">Twitter</a> // <a href="http://www.bloglovin.com/blog/3835490/the-naptown-organizer" target="_blank">Bloglovin'</a></div><br /><h1 style="text-align: center;">This Week's Features</h1><div style="text-align: center;">Here are our 5 featured link party picks from bloggers who linked up last week.</div><div style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://fivehearthome.com/wp-content/uploads/2013/12/MMJFeaturedCollageTopper.jpg"><img alt="M&amp;MJFeaturedCollageTopper" class="aligncenter wp-image-4840" src="http://fivehearthome.com/wp-content/uploads/2013/12/MMJFeaturedCollageTopper.jpg" height="200" width="600" /></a></div><div style="text-align: center;"><strong><em><a href="http://www.mamadish.com/wp-content/uploads/2014/05/wk55FeaturesCollageFinal.jpg"><img alt="Moonlight &amp; Mason Jars Week 55 Features" class="aligncenter wp-image-5427" src="http://www.mamadish.com/wp-content/uploads/2014/05/wk55FeaturesCollageFinal-1024x1024.jpg" height="614" width="614" /></a></em></strong></div><div style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://dietersdownfall.com/chocolate-martinis/" target="_blank">Chocolate Martinis // Dieters Downfall</a></div><div style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://www.thepinjunkie.com/2014/04/starbucks-passion-tea-lemonade.html" target="_blank">Copy Cat Starbucks: Passion Tea Lemonade // The Pin Junkie</a></div><div style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://thissillygirlslife.com/2014/05/blackberry-apricot-sangria/" target="_blank">Blackberry Apricot Sangria // This Silly Girl's Life</a></div><div style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://www.pintsizedbaker.com/2014/05/pineapple-and-kiwiberry-protein-smoothie.html" target="_blank">Pineapple and Kiwiberry Protein Smoothie // Pint Sized Baker</a></div><div style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://www.theseasonedmom.com/cranberry-lime-margaritas/" target="_blank">Cranberry Lime Margaritas // The Seasoned Mom</a></div><div style="text-align: left;"><br />Links to all our featured picks can be found on our <strong><a href="http://www.pinterest.com/jenniferpilgrim/link-party-picks-moonlight-mason-jars/">Featured Picks Pinterest Board</a></strong>. Sharing is caring; re-pins are always appreciated!</div><br /><h1 style="text-align: center;">This Week's Link Party</h1><div style="text-align: left;">Thank you so much for joining us this week. We can't wait to see what YOU have been working on! This is an "anything goes" kind-of link party, that's all about bloggers networking with each other. Please browse our <a href="http://www.mamadish.com/moonlight-mason-jars-link-party-rules/" target="_blank" title="Link Party Rules">party guidelines</a> and give us a quick follow using the links above, if you would be so kind. The only hard and fast "rule" is that in order to be featured, you must link back to Moonlight &amp; Mason Jars somewhere on your blog {thank you very much in advance!}</div><div style="text-align: left;"><br /><!-- start InLinkz script --><br /><div class="InLinkzContainer" id="404823"><a href="http://new.inlinkz.com//luwpview.php?id=404823" rel="nofollow" title="click to view in an external page.">An InLinkz Link-up</a></div><script src="http://static.inlinkz.com/cs2.js?v=007" type="text/javascript"></script><br /><br /></div><div class="nopin"><img alt="signature photo signature.png" border="0" src="http://i277.photobucket.com/albums/kk53/jhein815/Blog%20Design/signature.png" /><br /><br /><center><a href="https://twitter.com/share" target="_blank"><img alt="tweet this!" border="0" src="http://i277.photobucket.com/albums/kk53/jhein815/Blog%20Design/tweet-2.png" /></a><a href="http://www.facebook.com/TheNaptownOrganizer" target="_blank"><img alt="follow on fb" border="0" src="http://i277.photobucket.com/albums/kk53/jhein815/Blog%20Design/follow-on-facebook.png" /></a><a href="javascript:void((function()%7Bvar%20e=document.createElement('script');e.setAttribute('type','text/javascript');e.setAttribute('charset','UTF-8');e.setAttribute('src','http://assets.pinterest.com/js/pinmarklet.js?r='+Math.random()*99999999);document.body.appendChild(e)%7D)());"><img src="http://i277.photobucket.com/albums/kk53/jhein815/Blog%20Design/pin-2.png" /></a></center><center><div class="pf_ads" id="pf_25600"><script src="http://load.passionfruitads.com/a/804c0b3baeb0bec163a097303aa7151edb63abcd.js" type="text/javascript"></script></div></center></div>the naptown organizerhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/07065433185128079044noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-276425142143445412.post-90273634410825189832014-05-11T05:30:00.000-04:002014-05-11T05:30:00.601-04:00The Immense Task of Parenting and Motherhood<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"></div>A friend recently shared with me her comparisons between parenthood and a job.<br /><br /><i>Parenthood, she said, is not a shift. &nbsp;You aren't a babysitter or caregiver - it's a full time job. &nbsp;There is no time off, there is no vacation, there are no sick days. &nbsp;There is no lunch break or clock out or clock in. &nbsp;You're always on. &nbsp;You're always a parent.</i><br /><i><br /></i><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-MhKaRSP33fI/U27TRrpVM5I/AAAAAAAAEhg/KFfJveYC1Fw/s1600/motherhood+1.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-MhKaRSP33fI/U27TRrpVM5I/AAAAAAAAEhg/KFfJveYC1Fw/s1600/motherhood+1.jpg" height="410" width="640" /></a></div><i><br /></i><i><br /></i>Having my babies has been the most astounding, life-changing, immense thing I've ever done in my life. &nbsp;I hate to be that guy, but before you actually <b>ARE</b>&nbsp;a parent {yes, even if you have nieces or nephews or work at a daycare or even live with a child that you aren't directly responsible for} - you will never fully understand the extent of being a parent. &nbsp;You just can't, it isn't possible. &nbsp;Not until you can hold the little child in your arms that is your own - the one who owns your heart and being in it's entirety. &nbsp;The moment when your soul literally leaves your body and becomes new in your arms. &nbsp;The moment when heaven and earth crash together and the world shifts completely and the angels sing and you feel that teeny body in your grasp for the first time. &nbsp;It is only in the weight of that moment that you can feel the true beauty of this existence. <br /><br />Parenthood is <b>HARD</b>&nbsp;some days. &nbsp;Sometimes those hard days are most days. &nbsp;Between the constant requests, needs, wants, fights, bumps, outbursts, activities, hassle, preferences, and personalities - you may flounder. &nbsp;Sometimes you wish parenthood were like a job, because then you could take a vacation day and come back renewed and ready to go. &nbsp;You want to give up, throw in the towel, zone out, and clock out for a while. <br /><br />I often, often fight those same urges just like every other parent out there. &nbsp;But then - in those moments - I see my baby. &nbsp;I stop and breathe. <br /><br /><i>Deep, long breaths. &nbsp;Close my eyes and just breathe. &nbsp;Refocus. &nbsp;Recenter.</i><br /><i><br /></i>Our children are exactly who they are and exactly who they're meant to be at this moment. &nbsp;Yes - it is our job to help buff them up a bit to be kind, gentle, decent human beings. &nbsp;But it isn't our job to innately change who they are on the inside - in fact, that's the opposite of our job. <br /><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-GcrJ-RJEMSQ/U27TR3-3-aI/AAAAAAAAEhk/kZIz0K3A0Ns/s1600/motherhood+2.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-GcrJ-RJEMSQ/U27TR3-3-aI/AAAAAAAAEhk/kZIz0K3A0Ns/s1600/motherhood+2.jpg" height="426" width="640" /></a></div><br /><br />By seeing who our children are and looking to the motivation and root beneath their desires, needs, wants, and {sometimes incessant} requests, we're better able to meet both their and our needs in that seemingly endless progression of 24 hour shifts - as the days on the calendar blend into months and years. &nbsp;By taking a moment to breathe before we respond, we're better able to model that kindness and gentle understanding. &nbsp;We're better able to reflect back what they needed to allow our children to see that we've heard them and we understand their needs. &nbsp;We're better able to be the best version of ourselves for them.<br /><br />Because if we see parenthood or motherhood as a job, a shift, a number of hours until clock-out, we're not fully present with our children. &nbsp;We're just biding time until the next break, the next hand-off, the next moment for ourselves. &nbsp;While everyone deserves these things at some point, they cannot and will not be my day-to-day focus. As if they are, I'm missing out on the true focus of being a mother and parent - my children.<br /><br />This Mother's Day, I'm not expecting any grand fanfare for the work I do year round. &nbsp;While it would be lovely, I'm taking comfort that it exists in the quiet, soft moments between my children and myself. &nbsp;When my daughter rests her hand on my cheek as she nurses to sleep at night. &nbsp;When my son is upset and runs to me arms out crying, "I love you, Mama! &nbsp;Please hold me now!" &nbsp;When they both snuggle their way into my arms at the same time and hold each other as well as holding me. <br /><br />Some days {even on the hard ones}, I think that if motherhood were a job -<br /><br />It would be the best darn neverending job I could ever ask to have in my entire life.<br /><br /><div class="nopin"><img alt="signature photo signature.png" border="0" src="http://i277.photobucket.com/albums/kk53/jhein815/Blog%20Design/signature.png" /><br /><br /><center><a href="https://twitter.com/share" target="_blank"><img alt="tweet this!" border="0" src="http://i277.photobucket.com/albums/kk53/jhein815/Blog%20Design/tweet-2.png" /></a><a href="http://www.facebook.com/TheNaptownOrganizer" target="_blank"><img alt="follow on fb" border="0" src="http://i277.photobucket.com/albums/kk53/jhein815/Blog%20Design/follow-on-facebook.png" /></a><a href="javascript:void((function()%7Bvar%20e=document.createElement('script');e.setAttribute('type','text/javascript');e.setAttribute('charset','UTF-8');e.setAttribute('src','http://assets.pinterest.com/js/pinmarklet.js?r='+Math.random()*99999999);document.body.appendChild(e)%7D)());"><img src="http://i277.photobucket.com/albums/kk53/jhein815/Blog%20Design/pin-2.png" /></a></center><center><div class="pf_ads" id="pf_25600"><script src="http://load.passionfruitads.com/a/804c0b3baeb0bec163a097303aa7151edb63abcd.js" type="text/javascript"></script></div></center></div>the naptown organizerhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/07065433185128079044noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-276425142143445412.post-78528039606124795322014-05-09T13:24:00.002-04:002014-05-09T13:24:54.748-04:00Catch the Moment 365 - Days 120 through 126Because I have pretty much zero energy at this point, today's post is going to be on time but mainly a photo dump. &nbsp;If I get out of bed and stop drowning in my own secretions by next week I'll finally come back into the world of the functionally living and post a little bit!<br /><br /><table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-FVBknTmqwRA/U2whZsyJIoI/AAAAAAAAEgQ/GpEe5y0psMI/s1600/ctm120.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-FVBknTmqwRA/U2whZsyJIoI/AAAAAAAAEgQ/GpEe5y0psMI/s1600/ctm120.jpg" height="640" width="480" /></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Day 120</td></tr></tbody></table><br /><table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-fMmNwtZlPOg/U2whY9vlfiI/AAAAAAAAEgI/vNTQUqxUkMI/s1600/ctm121.png" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-fMmNwtZlPOg/U2whY9vlfiI/AAAAAAAAEgI/vNTQUqxUkMI/s1600/ctm121.png" height="640" width="408" /></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Day 121</td></tr></tbody></table><br /><table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="float: left; margin-right: 1em; text-align: left;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-Uq1KP-uQrII/U2whYbBQc1I/AAAAAAAAEgA/WwqEoPgH4SI/s1600/ctm122.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-Uq1KP-uQrII/U2whYbBQc1I/AAAAAAAAEgA/WwqEoPgH4SI/s1600/ctm122.jpg" height="450" width="640" /></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Day 122</td></tr></tbody></table><br /><table cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="float: left; margin-right: 1em; text-align: left;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-Qn5xKydiTaY/U2whZhU7TZI/AAAAAAAAEgM/70p9m2h8Zek/s1600/ctm123.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-Qn5xKydiTaY/U2whZhU7TZI/AAAAAAAAEgM/70p9m2h8Zek/s1600/ctm123.jpg" height="410" width="640" /></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Day 123</td></tr></tbody></table><br /><table cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="float: left; margin-right: 1em; text-align: left;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-gZ3lOHorFhM/U2whaOjYMOI/AAAAAAAAEgU/qNxuFWFwuGk/s1600/ctm124.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-gZ3lOHorFhM/U2whaOjYMOI/AAAAAAAAEgU/qNxuFWFwuGk/s1600/ctm124.jpg" height="410" width="640" /></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Day 124</td></tr></tbody></table><br /><table cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="float: left; margin-right: 1em; text-align: left;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-g0141NhfSLg/U2whalklztI/AAAAAAAAEgg/u3Ga79ctVrw/s1600/ctm125.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-g0141NhfSLg/U2whalklztI/AAAAAAAAEgg/u3Ga79ctVrw/s1600/ctm125.jpg" height="430" width="640" /></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Day 125 - This is the before shot of our sadly lacking landscaping. &nbsp;Updates to come next week!</td></tr></tbody></table><table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-g_5Ag2Rzyio/U20OHyHliYI/AAAAAAAAEg4/mzpM0usm0JQ/s1600/ctm126.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-g_5Ag2Rzyio/U20OHyHliYI/AAAAAAAAEg4/mzpM0usm0JQ/s1600/ctm126.jpg" height="640" width="474" /></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Day 126</td></tr></tbody></table><br /><div style="text-align: justify;"><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://www.nurselovesfarmer.com/" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;" target="_blank" title="Nurse Loves Farmer"><img alt="Nurse Loves Farmer" src="http://farm3.staticflickr.com/2815/11669640196_8b5a93ed44_m.jpg" style="border: none;" /></a></div></div><div style="text-align: justify;"><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"></div><br /><div class="nopin"><img alt="signature photo signature.png" border="0" src="http://i277.photobucket.com/albums/kk53/jhein815/Blog%20Design/signature.png" /><br /><br /><center><a href="https://twitter.com/share" target="_blank"><img alt="tweet this!" border="0" src="http://i277.photobucket.com/albums/kk53/jhein815/Blog%20Design/tweet-2.png" /></a><a href="http://www.facebook.com/TheNaptownOrganizer" target="_blank"><img alt="follow on fb" border="0" src="http://i277.photobucket.com/albums/kk53/jhein815/Blog%20Design/follow-on-facebook.png" /></a><a href="javascript:void((function()%7Bvar%20e=document.createElement('script');e.setAttribute('type','text/javascript');e.setAttribute('charset','UTF-8');e.setAttribute('src','http://assets.pinterest.com/js/pinmarklet.js?r='+Math.random()*99999999);document.body.appendChild(e)%7D)());"><img src="http://i277.photobucket.com/albums/kk53/jhein815/Blog%20Design/pin-2.png" /></a></center><center><div class="pf_ads" id="pf_25600"><script src="http://load.passionfruitads.com/a/804c0b3baeb0bec163a097303aa7151edb63abcd.js" type="text/javascript"></script></div></center></div></div>the naptown organizerhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/07065433185128079044noreply@blogger.com5tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-276425142143445412.post-86072407715896953032014-05-05T01:07:00.001-04:002014-05-05T01:11:45.763-04:00Catch the Moment 365 - Days 113 through 119And I'm late again. <br /><br />Fortunately, you'll see in a few of my next Catch the Moment weekly photo post pics why that is - as there are some MAJOR overhauls going on outside our house right now. &nbsp;We have a backyard project started that probably won't be finished for another week or two and a front yard landscaping project going on currently. &nbsp;I'm super excited to show you all the updates!<br /><br />As for right now though, here are this week's photos!<br /><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-y0OopiWSpjU/U2cX77DMtLI/AAAAAAAAEfM/dF_0jyBRqC0/s1600/ctm113.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-y0OopiWSpjU/U2cX77DMtLI/AAAAAAAAEfM/dF_0jyBRqC0/s1600/ctm113.jpg" height="410" width="640" /></a></div><br />113/365: Little Lady looooves bows. &nbsp;She literally will bring us bow after bow after bow and want them all in her hair. &nbsp;On days when she only wears one bow {like when we're out}, she will take the bow out, look at it for a minute or so, and then immediately try to put it back on again until she comes up to me for help.<br /><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-GF6Hk40hB7o/U2cX720BQtI/AAAAAAAAEfE/2NEcyXKDYYg/s1600/ctm114.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-GF6Hk40hB7o/U2cX720BQtI/AAAAAAAAEfE/2NEcyXKDYYg/s1600/ctm114.jpg" height="640" width="410" /></a></div><br />114/365: These kids are obsessed with watching our street. &nbsp;Whether it's the garbage truck, the mailman, someone mowing their lawn - whatever. &nbsp;<i>Sorry, neighbors. &nbsp;We're creepers.</i><br /><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-ySI2JnpsfwY/U2cX75Pc-2I/AAAAAAAAEfo/8EcH8EeQ57A/s1600/ctm115.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-ySI2JnpsfwY/U2cX75Pc-2I/AAAAAAAAEfo/8EcH8EeQ57A/s1600/ctm115.jpg" height="472" width="640" /></a></div><br />115/365: I'm borrowing this photo from the make-up <a href="http://www.musicalbeginnings.com/index.html" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">Kindermusik class</a> that DH was able to take Little Man to on this Saturday. &nbsp;Love these guys so much!<br /><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-UaWmeowMoPg/U2cX8zwZZbI/AAAAAAAAEfY/RqZZfM10aoo/s1600/ctm116.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-UaWmeowMoPg/U2cX8zwZZbI/AAAAAAAAEfY/RqZZfM10aoo/s1600/ctm116.jpg" height="640" width="410" /></a></div><br />116/365: We've been outside a ton since the weather has become nicer. &nbsp;The kids have been really into a bunch of random buckets we have laying around and mainly just transport sand from the sandbox around the yard. <br /><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-LjokCv_jBXc/U2cX853148I/AAAAAAAAEfk/mZgeOu5DNoo/s1600/ctm117.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-LjokCv_jBXc/U2cX853148I/AAAAAAAAEfk/mZgeOu5DNoo/s1600/ctm117.jpg" height="410" width="640" /></a></div><br />117/365: On cooler days, PlayDoh has been a huge hit, especially since we purchased one of those little strainer machines that spits out "snakes and spaghettis!" &nbsp;Lol.<br /><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-je0D58QDqsQ/U2cX9HoRpnI/AAAAAAAAEfs/VMcam13651U/s1600/ctm118.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-je0D58QDqsQ/U2cX9HoRpnI/AAAAAAAAEfs/VMcam13651U/s1600/ctm118.jpg" height="640" width="426" /></a></div><br />118/365: To move around some of my babywearing stash in order to purchase a new wrap, this lovely Mei Tai had to take a short walk to a loving new family. &nbsp;Thankfully, I've heard from the mama that her babe is loving it already!<br /><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-iK94rft0EYo/U2cX9W0d8cI/AAAAAAAAEfg/qiEXIMNEfEc/s1600/ctm119.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-iK94rft0EYo/U2cX9W0d8cI/AAAAAAAAEfg/qiEXIMNEfEc/s1600/ctm119.jpg" height="410" width="640" /></a></div><br />119/365: <i>Be still, my heart.</i>&nbsp; Little Man was playing in the backyard and picked me the first flower he's ever given to me. &nbsp;We then had to come into the house directly after to put it in water. &nbsp;We're still working on the fact that the stem goes in the water and not the top of the flower, but we'll get there :)<br /><br /><div style="text-align: justify;"><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://www.nurselovesfarmer.com/" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;" target="_blank" title="Nurse Loves Farmer"><img alt="Nurse Loves Farmer" src="http://farm3.staticflickr.com/2815/11669640196_8b5a93ed44_m.jpg" style="border: none;" /></a></div></div><div style="text-align: justify;"><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"></div><br /><div class="nopin"><img alt="signature photo signature.png" border="0" src="http://i277.photobucket.com/albums/kk53/jhein815/Blog%20Design/signature.png" /><br /><br /><center><a href="https://twitter.com/share" target="_blank"><img alt="tweet this!" border="0" src="http://i277.photobucket.com/albums/kk53/jhein815/Blog%20Design/tweet-2.png" /></a><a href="http://www.facebook.com/TheNaptownOrganizer" target="_blank"><img alt="follow on fb" border="0" src="http://i277.photobucket.com/albums/kk53/jhein815/Blog%20Design/follow-on-facebook.png" /></a><a href="javascript:void((function()%7Bvar%20e=document.createElement('script');e.setAttribute('type','text/javascript');e.setAttribute('charset','UTF-8');e.setAttribute('src','http://assets.pinterest.com/js/pinmarklet.js?r='+Math.random()*99999999);document.body.appendChild(e)%7D)());"><img src="http://i277.photobucket.com/albums/kk53/jhein815/Blog%20Design/pin-2.png" /></a></center><center><div class="pf_ads" id="pf_25600"><script src="http://load.passionfruitads.com/a/804c0b3baeb0bec163a097303aa7151edb63abcd.js" type="text/javascript"></script></div></center></div></div>the naptown organizerhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/07065433185128079044noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-276425142143445412.post-64974562538734218932014-04-30T20:36:00.000-04:002014-04-30T20:36:12.528-04:00I have big news!<i>First off, <b>no.</b>&nbsp; I'm not pregnant.</i><br /><i><br /></i> Lol. &nbsp;This is blogging news. &nbsp;Well, and life news - but mainly blogging news. <br /><br />Many of you remember that last year I attended <a href="http://www.blogher.com/blogher-topics/blogher-conference-2014" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">the BlogHer conference</a> for the first time. &nbsp;{If you need your memory refreshed, you can see <a href="http://www.thenaptownorganizer.com/2013/07/first-things-first-what-i-wore-to.html" target="_blank">what I wore to the conference</a>, <a href="http://www.thenaptownorganizer.com/2013/07/blogher13-recap-stay-food.html" target="_blank">the hotel &amp; the food</a>, <a href="http://www.thenaptownorganizer.com/2013/08/blogher13-recap-sessions-parties.html" target="_blank">the sessions &amp; the parties</a>, <a href="http://www.thenaptownorganizer.com/2013/08/blogher-13-recap-expo-swag.html" target="_blank">the expo &amp; the swag</a>, and <a href="http://www.thenaptownorganizer.com/2013/08/tnos-top-recommendations-for-blogher.html" target="_blank">my top tips for BlogHer newbies/reader Q&amp;A</a>&nbsp;at those links!}<br /><br />Well, this year, I will not only be attending - but I will also be <b><i>speaking</i></b>&nbsp;at the conference.<br /><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://blogher.com/blogher-14?from=badge" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img alt="I'm Going to BlogHer '14!" src="https://www.blogher.com/files/BH14_speaking.jpg" title="I'm Going to BlogHer '14" /></a></div><br /><br /><i>Holy whoa, people.</i><br /><br />I am ridiculously excited to be able to attend BlogHer and am honored that I was chosen to speak at one of the Geek Bar sessions regarding blog analytics! &nbsp;I'm fairly certain that I just about fell off my chair when I received word that I would be speaking and cannot even express how amazing and cool this opportunity is for me. &nbsp;I had an absolute blast last year at the conference and learned so many new things and cannot wait to not only attend again but also to share a few of the blogging tidbits that I use daily!<br /><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-5G6dmyiDeG8/UzZL56BG_HI/AAAAAAAAEXM/FOv8Vd0VG4I/s1600/bh1410.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-5G6dmyiDeG8/UzZL56BG_HI/AAAAAAAAEXM/FOv8Vd0VG4I/s1600/bh1410.jpg" /></a></div><br />This also means that I'll be flying to California this summer - which will be the third time away from my very adorable shadow Little Man ever {the first was BlogHer'13 and the second was while in the hospital birthing Little Lady} and the first time ever away from Little Lady, my snuggle bunny who nurses around the clock and definitely does not sleep through the night yet. <br /><br /><i>Let's all send up a silent prayer for happy baby vibes for DH, even though he's great with the kids and probably doesn't need it!</i><br /><i><br /></i>But, the most crazy part is that I'll be <b>flying.</b><br /><b><br /></b>I haven't been on an airplane in almost <i>seven&nbsp;years. &nbsp;</i>And the last time I flew I ended up in the ER with an anxiety-induced migraine in which I lost partial vision in one eye. <br /><br />So basically I'm astronomically excited and also simultaneously terrified. <br /><br /><i>Anyone have breastfeeding-friendly anxiety medication recommendations? &nbsp;Lol.</i><br /><i><br /></i>SEE YOU ALL IN SAN JOSE!!!!!!<br /><br /><div class="nopin"><img alt="signature photo signature.png" border="0" src="http://i277.photobucket.com/albums/kk53/jhein815/Blog%20Design/signature.png" /><br /><br /><center><a href="https://twitter.com/share" target="_blank"><img alt="tweet this!" border="0" src="http://i277.photobucket.com/albums/kk53/jhein815/Blog%20Design/tweet-2.png" /></a><a href="http://www.facebook.com/TheNaptownOrganizer" target="_blank"><img alt="follow on fb" border="0" src="http://i277.photobucket.com/albums/kk53/jhein815/Blog%20Design/follow-on-facebook.png" /></a><a href="javascript:void((function()%7Bvar%20e=document.createElement('script');e.setAttribute('type','text/javascript');e.setAttribute('charset','UTF-8');e.setAttribute('src','http://assets.pinterest.com/js/pinmarklet.js?r='+Math.random()*99999999);document.body.appendChild(e)%7D)());"><img src="http://i277.photobucket.com/albums/kk53/jhein815/Blog%20Design/pin-2.png" /></a></center><center><div class="pf_ads" id="pf_25600"><script src="http://load.passionfruitads.com/a/804c0b3baeb0bec163a097303aa7151edb63abcd.js" type="text/javascript"></script></div></center></div>the naptown organizerhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/07065433185128079044noreply@blogger.com3tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-276425142143445412.post-46092553568570089482014-04-28T20:21:00.000-04:002014-04-28T20:21:57.966-04:00Our Easter 2014 photos!We were really lucky this Easter and my awesome parents were able to come down to visit with us. <br /><br /><i>They were so lucky they took our illness home.</i><br /><i><br /></i>Love you - Mom &amp; Dad!<br /><br />Here's a few photos of our weekend!<br /><br /><table cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="float: left; margin-right: 1em; text-align: left;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-rizHiWKbuec/U1xcnzPAo-I/AAAAAAAAEdY/P1Q5kdDYqZM/s1600/easter.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-rizHiWKbuec/U1xcnzPAo-I/AAAAAAAAEdY/P1Q5kdDYqZM/s1600/easter.jpg" height="426" width="640" /></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Little Man was super excited from the get-go, Little Lady took a little more convincing.</td></tr></tbody></table><br /><table cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="float: left; margin-right: 1em; text-align: left;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-Rh8mvPYTviA/U1xcsaGJ44I/AAAAAAAAEdo/gOTHKcZzsDc/s1600/easter+1.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-Rh8mvPYTviA/U1xcsaGJ44I/AAAAAAAAEdo/gOTHKcZzsDc/s1600/easter+1.jpg" height="410" width="640" /></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Until she had a Reese cup.</td></tr></tbody></table><br /><table cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="float: left; margin-right: 1em; text-align: left;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-SQXRFMHRAT8/U1xcsg6D6TI/AAAAAAAAEdk/kvzhqYIo9oc/s1600/easter+2.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-SQXRFMHRAT8/U1xcsg6D6TI/AAAAAAAAEdk/kvzhqYIo9oc/s1600/easter+2.jpg" height="426" width="640" /></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">This was our first official Easter egg hunt - not quite sure why we hadn't ever done it in the past. &nbsp;The kids were both really into it!</td></tr></tbody></table><br /><table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-IibwEA8hZwQ/U1xcscWZodI/AAAAAAAAEdg/9POYWy5M0so/s1600/easter+3.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-IibwEA8hZwQ/U1xcscWZodI/AAAAAAAAEdg/9POYWy5M0so/s1600/easter+3.jpg" height="640" width="426" /></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Little Lady spent part of the time picking up eggs/candy and then carrying them over to either DH/I or my parents to open before going back for another.</td></tr></tbody></table><br /><table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-iLS08Hlqf-Y/U1xctZi0EeI/AAAAAAAAEeA/2KTgdZ4b9bs/s1600/easter+4.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-iLS08Hlqf-Y/U1xctZi0EeI/AAAAAAAAEeA/2KTgdZ4b9bs/s1600/easter+4.jpg" height="640" width="426" /></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Little Man opened a few as he went but was more trying to obtain as many eggs as possible :)</td></tr></tbody></table><br /><table cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="float: left; margin-right: 1em; text-align: left;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-S18dAj79JYM/U1xcttE9GKI/AAAAAAAAEd4/9sd8qoD_flo/s1600/easter+5.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-S18dAj79JYM/U1xcttE9GKI/AAAAAAAAEd4/9sd8qoD_flo/s1600/easter+5.jpg" height="410" width="640" /></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Once inside, we had a few snuggles.</td></tr></tbody></table><br /><table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-um_gqnlLN1M/U1xctwmzLRI/AAAAAAAAEd8/d6Z6dvHShyU/s1600/easter+6.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-um_gqnlLN1M/U1xctwmzLRI/AAAAAAAAEd8/d6Z6dvHShyU/s1600/easter+6.jpg" height="640" width="410" /></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">And then some giggles with Grammy</td></tr></tbody></table><br /><table cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="float: left; margin-right: 1em; text-align: left;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-snqsWoWSWO8/U1xcudPzSfI/AAAAAAAAEeQ/gtQZcmQUQbU/s1600/easter+7.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-snqsWoWSWO8/U1xcudPzSfI/AAAAAAAAEeQ/gtQZcmQUQbU/s1600/easter+7.jpg" height="410" width="640" /></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">While the boys had some man discussion at the table.<br /><br /><div style="text-align: left;"><span style="font-size: small;"><br /></span></div><div style="text-align: left;"><span style="font-family: inherit; font-size: small;">Hope you all had a WONDERFUL holiday!!!</span></div></td></tr></tbody></table><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><div class="nopin"><img alt="signature photo signature.png" border="0" src="http://i277.photobucket.com/albums/kk53/jhein815/Blog%20Design/signature.png" /><br /><br /><center><a href="https://twitter.com/share" target="_blank"><img alt="tweet this!" border="0" src="http://i277.photobucket.com/albums/kk53/jhein815/Blog%20Design/tweet-2.png" /></a><a href="http://www.facebook.com/TheNaptownOrganizer" target="_blank"><img alt="follow on fb" border="0" src="http://i277.photobucket.com/albums/kk53/jhein815/Blog%20Design/follow-on-facebook.png" /></a><a href="javascript:void((function()%7Bvar%20e=document.createElement('script');e.setAttribute('type','text/javascript');e.setAttribute('charset','UTF-8');e.setAttribute('src','http://assets.pinterest.com/js/pinmarklet.js?r='+Math.random()*99999999);document.body.appendChild(e)%7D)());"><img src="http://i277.photobucket.com/albums/kk53/jhein815/Blog%20Design/pin-2.png" /></a></center><center><div class="pf_ads" id="pf_25600"><script src="http://load.passionfruitads.com/a/804c0b3baeb0bec163a097303aa7151edb63abcd.js" type="text/javascript"></script></div></center></div>the naptown organizerhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/07065433185128079044noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-276425142143445412.post-55191042686089584252014-04-25T00:05:00.001-04:002014-04-25T00:05:24.914-04:00Catch the Moment 365 - Days 106 through 112Wellllll, hey there.<br /><br />{insert crickets here}<br /><br />When I sat down to work on this week's CTM post, I completely realized that I hadn't posted since <i>last week's</i>&nbsp;CTM post. &nbsp;Which is kind of a testament to how crazy it's been around here lately.<br /><br />For whatever reason, we are all sick {minus DH} <b>again</b>&nbsp;this week. &nbsp;We've also had family in for the Easter holiday {I have an upcoming photo dump post on that!}, DH was out of town for the week {hence the fact that he is likely super healthy and well-rested after staying the week in a hotel... <i>sigh</i>}, I've been working on two new blogs {one for my babywearing chapter and one industry-specific speech therapy blog}, and I scheduled us unfortunately with eleventy bazillion appointments this week {dentist for both me and the kids, doctor appointments for both of the kids, a babywearing meeting, our music class, preschool co-op, and about a trillion errands}. <br /><br />Needless to say I've been running around like a sick, tired, crazy person.<br /><br />I have a few awesome posts upcoming for you all including our Easter photos, the conclusion of the <a href="http://www.thenaptownorganizer.com/2014/04/peepods-cloth-menstrual-pad-review.html" target="_blank">Peepods giveaway</a>, as well a fantastic local review coming up - but here are this week's photos!<br /><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-ajLFeIA4OWk/U1ndLFY75NI/AAAAAAAAEcg/hUxuxQ-tVtU/s1600/ctm106.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-ajLFeIA4OWk/U1ndLFY75NI/AAAAAAAAEcg/hUxuxQ-tVtU/s1600/ctm106.jpg" height="426" width="640" /></a></div><br />106/365: &nbsp;Little Lady found another pair of glasses in the doctor kit I purchased used off of the marketplace - and is officially <b>obsessed</b>.<br /><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-60rQGBCHtlQ/U1ndLGgWx2I/AAAAAAAAEcc/pVu-N8W13K4/s1600/ctm107.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-60rQGBCHtlQ/U1ndLGgWx2I/AAAAAAAAEcc/pVu-N8W13K4/s1600/ctm107.jpg" height="412" width="640" /></a></div><br />107/365: Little Man's mischievous but adorable grin!<br /><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-y8590SioN2E/U1ndLJHNk_I/AAAAAAAAEcY/38F1uAItu24/s1600/ctm108.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-y8590SioN2E/U1ndLJHNk_I/AAAAAAAAEcY/38F1uAItu24/s1600/ctm108.jpg" height="640" width="474" /></a></div><br />108/365: &nbsp;This photo is obviously horrible quality, but Little Lady was holding my phone while we played a game of tickling. &nbsp;I kind of love her point of view here.<br /><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-mYLWpearn-E/U1ndMJM1-9I/AAAAAAAAEcs/3a-QbKT_xDo/s1600/ctm109.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-mYLWpearn-E/U1ndMJM1-9I/AAAAAAAAEcs/3a-QbKT_xDo/s1600/ctm109.jpg" height="426" width="640" /></a></div><br />109/365: &nbsp;You know, just eatin' my breakfast. &nbsp;By osmosis.<br /><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-OqC0OGgKhsQ/U1ndMTtmz6I/AAAAAAAAEdE/h8GPw0GK3T8/s1600/ctm110.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-OqC0OGgKhsQ/U1ndMTtmz6I/AAAAAAAAEdE/h8GPw0GK3T8/s1600/ctm110.jpg" height="410" width="640" /></a></div><br />110/365: &nbsp;Happy Easter, everyone! &nbsp;Please excuse the fact that we dressed our kids but yet DH &amp; I rolled out of bed and went into the yard for the egg hunt wearing our pj's from the night before.<br /><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-XTL1wj8noD4/U1ndMqrPAHI/AAAAAAAAEc0/uLiA8zTuwlg/s1600/ctm111.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-XTL1wj8noD4/U1ndMqrPAHI/AAAAAAAAEc0/uLiA8zTuwlg/s1600/ctm111.jpg" height="410" width="640" /></a></div><br />111/365: &nbsp;With the returned sickness, there has been a lot of this going on lately!<br /><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-zs3-htItG-Y/U1ndM7rmAjI/AAAAAAAAEc8/nNXiNKv9iBE/s1600/ctm112.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-zs3-htItG-Y/U1ndM7rmAjI/AAAAAAAAEc8/nNXiNKv9iBE/s1600/ctm112.jpg" height="640" width="426" /></a></div><br />112/365: &nbsp;And here's a preview of the FANTASTIC local music class review upcoming on the blog for our local <a href="http://www.musicalbeginnings.com/" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">Kindermusik with Miss Kim</a>!<br /><br />Check out the other link ups here, and I hope you all had a wonderful Easter holiday!<br /><br /><div style="text-align: justify;"><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://www.nurselovesfarmer.com/" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;" target="_blank" title="Nurse Loves Farmer"><img alt="Nurse Loves Farmer" src="http://farm3.staticflickr.com/2815/11669640196_8b5a93ed44_m.jpg" style="border: none;" /></a></div></div><div style="text-align: justify;"><br /><div class="nopin"><img alt="signature photo signature.png" border="0" src="http://i277.photobucket.com/albums/kk53/jhein815/Blog%20Design/signature.png" /><br /><br /><center><a href="https://twitter.com/share" target="_blank"><img alt="tweet this!" border="0" src="http://i277.photobucket.com/albums/kk53/jhein815/Blog%20Design/tweet-2.png" /></a><a href="http://www.facebook.com/TheNaptownOrganizer" target="_blank"><img alt="follow on fb" border="0" src="http://i277.photobucket.com/albums/kk53/jhein815/Blog%20Design/follow-on-facebook.png" /></a><a href="javascript:void((function()%7Bvar%20e=document.createElement('script');e.setAttribute('type','text/javascript');e.setAttribute('charset','UTF-8');e.setAttribute('src','http://assets.pinterest.com/js/pinmarklet.js?r='+Math.random()*99999999);document.body.appendChild(e)%7D)());"><img src="http://i277.photobucket.com/albums/kk53/jhein815/Blog%20Design/pin-2.png" /></a></center><center><div class="pf_ads" id="pf_25600"><script src="http://load.passionfruitads.com/a/804c0b3baeb0bec163a097303aa7151edb63abcd.js" type="text/javascript"></script></div></center></div></div>the naptown organizerhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/07065433185128079044noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-276425142143445412.post-75441761827100030702014-04-19T01:02:00.001-04:002014-04-19T01:02:34.086-04:00Catch the Moment 365 - Days 99 through 105So obviously, this post is a little late. <br /><br />For whatever reason, Friday hit this week and I completely had spaced that it was even Friday. &nbsp;I've been working on a few side projects that have totally engulfed my spare time {hello, crickets on the blog otherwise! &nbsp;I promise I'll get back here soon!}. &nbsp;Our week was also a little off because DH didn't have to work the Friday before Easter for the holiday, so he was home as well.<br /><br />Even though I had taken all of my daily photos, I hadn't edited any of them or prepped this post. &nbsp;And, I think a few of the photos might be out of order? &nbsp;I can't remember, this week was crazy with weather changes and I can't remember which day was which! &nbsp;So, oops. &nbsp;Sorry for the tardiness!<br /><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-QCMiLdkLmEc/U1H_-Y9DA9I/AAAAAAAAEbo/kEXvDS6G7E4/s1600/ctm99.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-QCMiLdkLmEc/U1H_-Y9DA9I/AAAAAAAAEbo/kEXvDS6G7E4/s1600/ctm99.jpg" height="640" width="479" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">99/365: I seriously just love so much how these two play together now. &nbsp;And also this weather!</div><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-1t9N0eYjeno/U1H_71o10eI/AAAAAAAAEbA/JV66cBXpdKM/s1600/ctm100.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-1t9N0eYjeno/U1H_71o10eI/AAAAAAAAEbA/JV66cBXpdKM/s1600/ctm100.jpg" height="640" width="426" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">100/365: I don't know what it is about baby hats, but for whatever reason these hats and their first pair of toddler shoes when they <b>really</b>&nbsp;start walking hold such a special place in my heart. &nbsp;Both of these hats are for sure ending up in the keepsake boxes I keep for the kids!</div><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-L_8SIU0yQP0/U1H_7qebM3I/AAAAAAAAEa4/bAPp40JoNnA/s1600/ctm101.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-L_8SIU0yQP0/U1H_7qebM3I/AAAAAAAAEa4/bAPp40JoNnA/s1600/ctm101.jpg" height="640" width="426" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">101/365: Pure joy - in the form of a curtain peekaboo game.</div><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-L-vct_onH2c/U1H_77uEHVI/AAAAAAAAEa8/A-JOJrjjkjc/s1600/ctm102.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-L-vct_onH2c/U1H_77uEHVI/AAAAAAAAEa8/A-JOJrjjkjc/s1600/ctm102.jpg" height="640" width="426" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">102/365: Little Lady <b>loves</b>&nbsp;to crawl up on Little Man's toddler bed and just play/sit/read/relax lately. &nbsp;She's fantastic at getting in and out, which makes me feel a bit more comfortable mentally with the fact that I'm sure {as our resident high motor baby} she will be our crib jumper at some point in the future.</div><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-q5xOfs0oIS8/U1H_8uL0K9I/AAAAAAAAEbQ/bEsLVQstyx4/s1600/ctm103.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-q5xOfs0oIS8/U1H_8uL0K9I/AAAAAAAAEbQ/bEsLVQstyx4/s1600/ctm103.jpg" height="640" width="426" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">103/365: Jell-o jigglers in the form of a train from his awesomely adorable daddy? &nbsp;More toddler joy!</div><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/--gHDo-YLNv4/U1H_9fR4OII/AAAAAAAAEbY/2103wMT0vS8/s1600/ctm104.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/--gHDo-YLNv4/U1H_9fR4OII/AAAAAAAAEbY/2103wMT0vS8/s1600/ctm104.jpg" height="640" width="426" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">104/365: Those baby eyes!!! &nbsp;I seriously could just smooch this face all darn day long.</div><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-NmaGJ7w9GK4/U1H_9zuxrYI/AAAAAAAAEbc/AO5j2CaAAVE/s1600/ctm105.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-NmaGJ7w9GK4/U1H_9zuxrYI/AAAAAAAAEbc/AO5j2CaAAVE/s1600/ctm105.jpg" height="474" width="640" /></a></div><br />105/365: &nbsp;And since she has been passing out hard after a long morning of play for naps lately, I've been able to steal just a few sweet sleeping baby photos this week!<br /><br />Want to link up or see other Catch the Moment posts? &nbsp;Click below!<br /><br /><div style="text-align: justify;"><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://www.nurselovesfarmer.com/" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;" target="_blank" title="Nurse Loves Farmer"><img alt="Nurse Loves Farmer" src="http://farm3.staticflickr.com/2815/11669640196_8b5a93ed44_m.jpg" style="border: none;" /></a></div></div><div style="text-align: justify;"><br /><div class="nopin"><img alt="signature photo signature.png" border="0" src="http://i277.photobucket.com/albums/kk53/jhein815/Blog%20Design/signature.png" /><br /><br /><center><a href="https://twitter.com/share" target="_blank"><img alt="tweet this!" border="0" src="http://i277.photobucket.com/albums/kk53/jhein815/Blog%20Design/tweet-2.png" /></a><a href="http://www.facebook.com/TheNaptownOrganizer" target="_blank"><img alt="follow on fb" border="0" src="http://i277.photobucket.com/albums/kk53/jhein815/Blog%20Design/follow-on-facebook.png" /></a><a href="javascript:void((function()%7Bvar%20e=document.createElement('script');e.setAttribute('type','text/javascript');e.setAttribute('charset','UTF-8');e.setAttribute('src','http://assets.pinterest.com/js/pinmarklet.js?r='+Math.random()*99999999);document.body.appendChild(e)%7D)());"><img src="http://i277.photobucket.com/albums/kk53/jhein815/Blog%20Design/pin-2.png" /></a></center><center><div class="pf_ads" id="pf_25600"><script src="http://load.passionfruitads.com/a/804c0b3baeb0bec163a097303aa7151edb63abcd.js" type="text/javascript"></script></div></center></div></div>the naptown organizerhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/07065433185128079044noreply@blogger.com3tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-276425142143445412.post-3116969183397995612014-04-15T15:45:00.000-04:002014-04-15T15:49:22.301-04:00Peepods Cloth Menstrual Pad Review & Giveaway!<i>* Disclosure - I was provided items for review by Peepods to facilitate this post. &nbsp;Opinions are 100% honest and my own!</i><br /><i><br /></i> <i>* Another double disclosure for the queasy or male readers - this is another post about PERIODS. &nbsp;Walk away now if you need to tune this out. &nbsp;Lol.</i><br /><i><br /></i> After several long, lovely years of no monthly cycle due to either being pregnant or breastfeeding both of our babies - I finally had a return of my period. &nbsp;<b>Ugh. &nbsp;</b>Since that time, I've been researching and trying out more natural options for monthly feminine care - which I have been loving! &nbsp;{If you're interested in seeing <a href="http://www.thenaptownorganizer.com/2014/02/diva-cup-review-and-giveaway.html" target="_blank">my recent review of the DivaCup - check it out here</a>!} &nbsp;Today's post, though, is all about the washable, reusable menstrual pads.<br /><br />Before I chat about that - let's talk about what I despise about typical pads. <br /><br /><i>#1 - They crinkle.</i><br /><i><br /></i> Nothing like announcing your presence in a pair of leggings or yoga pants like your pad crunching and crinkling in your pants. &nbsp;Some brands do this more than others, for sure - but I hate that I have to consider how loud a pad is going to be when I make a purchase.<br /><br /><i>#2 - Speaking of purchasing... they are expensive!</i><br /><i><br /></i> Over a lifetime, one woman can use <b>thousands</b>&nbsp;of pads or tampons - costing TONS of money. &nbsp;When I was using pads and tampons, I would spend anywhere from $10-20 per cycle on menstrual products. &nbsp;If we take the average of that at $15, that cost me almost $200 per year. <br /><br /><i>#3 - It's a huge waste of materials.</i><br /><i><br /></i> If you think about the cost of production {over, and over, and over}, the marketing of these products, and the transportation to deliver them to your store each month, for each woman, for a lifetime - it adds up. &nbsp;Then let's take into account that you use valuable resources making trips out to pick up these products each month. &nbsp;And then on top of that consider that a pad comes in a large box or bag and that inside that each pad is wrapped with one piece of plastic, as well as often has another piece of paper attached to the sticky portion, as well as two other pieces of paper if you have a pad with wings - and we're talking a <b>whole lot</b>&nbsp;of waste even before you actually use the pad. <br /><br />It's a ton of waste for something you're going to throw away as well typically not even a few hours after you've opened it.<br /><br /><i>#4 - They just don't feel right.</i><br /><i><br /></i> If any of you men are still reading right about now {<i>why haven't you run away?</i>} - to understand the discomfort of a pad, I'd recommend you buy a diaper, pour some liquid into it, and then sit in it for an hour or two. &nbsp;It's <b>really</b>&nbsp;uncomfortable. &nbsp;And - I don't know if this is just me? - several pad brands cause me to break out in a rash. &nbsp;When I was younger it took me a little while to realize that this was directly related to the pads I was wearing during my period, but each month like clockwork I would get a super uncomfortable rash whenever I would break out that old trusty bag of plastic pads. &nbsp;Gross.<br /><br />After we had children, the idea of reusable, cloth pads began to sound more and more comfortable to me over time. &nbsp;I was so over plastic drugstore pads - and it was time for me to be completely done with them. &nbsp;I mean, we already wash cloth diapers a few times a week anyway - so would washing a few reusable pads really be that big of a deal?<br /><br />The lovely Amber at <a href="http://mypeepods.com/" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">Peepods</a> was so awesome to send me a set of her period pads - and I was really excited to try them out! &nbsp;{Peepods also makes postpartum pads, nursing pads, and incontinence pads as well for all of your mama needs!}<br /><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-157SdM_yUFw/UzpAQqEV_aI/AAAAAAAAEXg/qO17lMK7cw4/s1600/3_Cranberry.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-157SdM_yUFw/UzpAQqEV_aI/AAAAAAAAEXg/qO17lMK7cw4/s1600/3_Cranberry.jpg" height="320" width="320" /></a></div><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-DqAlCkXVjZo/UzpAQ7o9B0I/AAAAAAAAEXw/-8BlFHjdYnw/s1600/3_Espresso.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-DqAlCkXVjZo/UzpAQ7o9B0I/AAAAAAAAEXw/-8BlFHjdYnw/s1600/3_Espresso.jpg" height="320" width="320" /></a></div><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-lZ_1jCwoYPU/UzpAQ7rPSoI/AAAAAAAAEXk/pevTa0ykFuQ/s1600/dpp.png" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-lZ_1jCwoYPU/UzpAQ7rPSoI/AAAAAAAAEXk/pevTa0ykFuQ/s1600/dpp.png" /></a></div><br />As you can see above, Peepods come in a variety of colors {and sizes!}. &nbsp;There are pantyliners, day pads, and overnight pads. &nbsp;One of the features I absolutely love is that the wings are a separate fabric from the actual pad, so that there is no method of leaking from the pad down the wing. &nbsp;The pads also snap into place around your undies, so there's no need for any adhesive to keep them in place. <br /><br />Initially, I was concerned about being grossed out with what I saw on the pad - but honestly, I received the espresso color and I can barely see anything actually on the pad. <br /><br />Once you've used the pad, they fold up and you can snap the wings back around the front to hold it closed. &nbsp;You can then throw the pads into a washable wetbag. &nbsp;{<a href="http://mypeepods.com/new-products/period-pads" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">The Deluxe Sets of pads</a> from Peepods include a Planetwise wetbag with the set - which is a fantastic addition!} &nbsp;As I mentioned earlier, I just throw the pads into our dirty diaper laundry, and wash from there. &nbsp;Outside of DH getting really confused and putting them away with our inserts and doublers - we've had no problems with washing!<br /><br />I know that a lot of women I've spoken with are a little bit squeamish, and for those I would definitely recommend at least giving a Peepod pad/DivaCup or even Peepod and tampon combo a try. &nbsp;The Peepods are really fantastic for a stand alone menstrual product, but they're also my number one pick as a liner to wear under my DivaCup on heavier days and would be a MUCH better way to live a little more ecofriendly and a little more chemical-free even if you do still choose to wear tampons!<br /><br />After reviewing both reusable menstrual cups and pads for the blog - I can definitely say I am completely done with both pads and tampons. &nbsp;Unfortunately, I have a somewhat large stash of pads and tampons I hadn't yet used. &nbsp;Each month since receiving the Peepods and DivaCup, I keep telling myself I'll use the tampons and plastic pads - and each month after 1-2 uses of those items I switch back to the Peepods and the DivaCup. &nbsp;I just can't bring myself to use anything but the reusable stuff anymore! &nbsp;I am completely sold and if you all have questions beyond what I've discussed in both this and the DivaCup post - please either post a comment or send me a PM! &nbsp;I'd be happy to help with any of your questions!<br /><br />Now for the fun part for you all - the giveaway! &nbsp;Enter below to win a set of three period pads for yourself!<br /><br /><a class="rafl" href="http://www.rafflecopter.com/rafl/display/33e3e038/" id="rc-33e3e038" rel="nofollow">a Rafflecopter giveaway</a><br /><script src="//d12vno17mo87cx.cloudfront.net/embed/rafl/cptr.js"></script><br /><br /><div class="nopin"><img alt="signature photo signature.png" border="0" src="http://i277.photobucket.com/albums/kk53/jhein815/Blog%20Design/signature.png" /><br /><br /><center><a href="https://twitter.com/share" target="_blank"><img alt="tweet this!" border="0" src="http://i277.photobucket.com/albums/kk53/jhein815/Blog%20Design/tweet-2.png" /></a><a href="http://www.facebook.com/TheNaptownOrganizer" target="_blank"><img alt="follow on fb" border="0" 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